Obituary of John R. Kane

John Rowland Kane, of Ashland New York, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at his home. He was the loving husband and widower of Monika Kane, with whom he shared 31 years of marriage, many of which were in their retirement home in the Catskills. 

John was born on May 21,1934 in New York, and graduated from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York. He spent most of his life living in the NYC/ Long Island area before retiring upstate. John was a decorated police officer with the NYPD, concluding his career as Detective Lieutenant, Commanding Officer of the 13th Homicide Zone. John's legacy lives on through two of his sons and his grandson, who share his dedication to law enforcement. 

John and Monika were married on April 17,1980, shortly after which he retired. John had an unwavering love for the outdoors, hunting and fishing; and a strong interest in politics. He spent his retirement enjoying a quiet life living in the mountains with Monika. From this, he derived great joy. He had a strong faith in God and served as a Knight of Columbus for St. Theresa’s for many years. During their retirement, John and Monika also spent considerable time in Germany (Hamburg, Todendorf) and in his later years - Naples, Florida. He was particularly proud of his Irish heritage and his father serving as Grand Marshall of the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 1955.

John was predeceased by his wife Monika, daughter Dolores, mother Ernestine, father John, and brother-in-law Richard Carroll.

He is survived by his sister Merilyn, son John (daughter-in-law Debra, grandson Sean, granddaughters Brianna, Alexa and Skylar, great grandson Massimo), son Brendan (daughter-in-law Robin, grandson Ryan, granddaughters Kristen and Jessica), son Mark (daughter-in-law Janice, granddaughter Nicole), daughter Michele (grandson Patrik) and daughter Susan (son-in-law Christopher, granddaughters Amelia and Abigail); along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Calling hours will be held at Decker Funeral Home 5312 Route 23 Windham, NY from 4-6 pm on Monday, January 26th, with a funeral service to follow on Tuesday, January 27th at St. Theresa’s of the Child Jesus Roman Catholic Church in Windham, NY. 

Condolences may be left at www.deckerfh.com.