Janet Nelson
Jan Nelson passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham at the age of 69, following a long illness.
Born Janet Ann Stark in Lawton, Oklahoma to Dr. John W. Stark and Mrs. Margaret A. Stark in 1944. After World War II and a few moves, the small family ended up in Kirkland, Washington where Jan lovingly tolerated her new little sister, Katy. She graduated from Lake Washington High in 1962 and went on to attend Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma where she met her future husband, Steve Nelson. In 1972, Jan, Steve and their two children, John Stark Nelson and Kathryn Joanne Nelson settled in Birch Bay, Washington where Jan worked doing what she loved best, being around people and helping animals. She worked at such places as Bay Center Grocery and Blaine Drug Store. She also worked as receptionist for Blaine Animal Hospital. She was the type of person who always went the extra mile to help someone and make sure that no animal did without if at all possible. She was a loving mother and grandmother, for her two- and four-legged kids.
Jan loved the natural beauty of the mountains and the seas and always considered the Pacific Northwest, especially western Washington “God’s Country” and her home.
Jan is survived by her mother, Margaret Stark, of Birch Bay; her sister, Kate Morgan (Charley) of Camano Island; her children, Katie Nelson of Birch Bay and John Nelson (Kyla) of Birch Bay; three grandchildren: Torrance Nelson, Delany Nelson and Jack Nelson, all of Birch Bay; and numerous cousins, friends and her beloved dog, Shanghai.
At Jan’s request there will be no memorial or funeral. Her final wishes were, if anyone should choose to honor her, to contribute in some fashion to any animal shelter of your choice. Volunteer for a day to give a dog or cat or horse much needed playtime, grooming and love, help with laundry, clean kennels or donate badly needed supplies, food or cash.
Memories
From Noella Kanoela…
Jannie, as I called her, was a special person and will truely remember her. We met in 1962 after I visited with her and her family in Kirkland. Dr. and Mrs. Stark were like my own parents and Jannie and her sister were the sisters I never had. Jannie, you will always be my sister and I love you. I am so glad I made my "road trip" from California to visit with you and your family. Special memories. Rest in Peace, my friend and sister.
Aloha, Noella
From art yeoman
My sincerest condolences to Mrs. Stark and Kate (only family members I met) whom I knew in the late 50's in Kirkland. I am sorry for the passing of your daughter and sister. I have many fond memories of Kirkland where I went to Lake Washington High School, met Jan, her sister and their parents. Dr. Stark was an inspiration to me and motivated me to pursue pharmacy as a career. I have always been thankful for his guidance as it served me well. I am sure the family and friends will always have a great empty feeling for Jan but would like you to know it is shared by me as well.
From Iva Boone
Jan and I were classmates and I remember her well. We talked together most school days and laughed at simple things that tickled us. I did not have a chance to see her after high school. There are countless number of times I have been in Blaine visiting friends or just relaxing in Birch Bay for a few days, and I could have visited with Jan if I had known that she lived there. It is difficult to find words of comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts are with all of you as you go through this journey of grief.
From Dave Stephens
Margaret and Katie, so sorry about Jan's passing, she is in heaven with Sandra. I remember being on the NO PHONE with Steve & Jannie, Steve & Sherry, Bob & Amber, Sandra & I like it was yesterday. Jan was right, Birch Bay is paradise, I was born at St. Joes and spent all my summers at Birch Bay as a child. My thoughts are with you, God Bless
From Lynne Van Luven
I was saddened to read about Jan s passing. I met Jan at the Blaine Animal Hospital. She always was so kind not only to me but to my pets.
I remember going in the morning after my dog had had surgery and I was a nervous wreck and as I walked in to the hospital I heard Jan say
to my dog"I told you your mom would be the first one here to pick you up, she wouldn t forget you - I would hear her talking to the pets that were either waiting for surgery or just being boarded and she was always so kind to them. My sincere sympathy to the family - she was a dear lady.
From Geri Fox
I am so sorry to read about Jan passing away recently. I knew her from her time at Blaine Animal Hospital. She was always so loving and kind and one of the sweetest people I have ever known. She will always have a special place in my heart.
I am truly sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones.
From Ellen Ostrander Lutz
So many memories of Jan and the whole Stark family. For me, growing up in Kirkland would not have been complete without them. So hard to lose her so young. Our thoughts and love are with you all.
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