Jan was born on June 13, 1947, to Wilford and Elaine Williamson in Sioux City, IA. She graduated from Sioux City East and later attended Wayne State University in Wayne, NE, where she met the love of her life, Ron. They married in 1966 and were blessed with two children, Chad and Carey. Jan adored her family, especially her grandchildren, Hannah, Kelsey, Jackson, Carter, Weston, and Brooklyn. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, whose love and warmth will be cherished by all who knew her.
Jan had a passion for life and brought joy to those around her. Whether she was engaging in spirited rounds of Mah Jongg, Mexican Train, or her cherished Pickle Ball matches, Jan infused every moment with joy and enthusiasm and lovingly shared her passion with her grandchildren. Known for her meticulous planning and boundless creativity, Jan elevated every occasion to unforgettable heights. From her legendary Easter egg hunts, to meticulously planned birthday celebrations complete with elaborate cakes and handmade birthday cards, her dedication to creating cherished memories was unparalleled. Jan’s flair for home decorating was renowned, earning accolades as her home became a staple on numerous home tours and making her the go-to advisor for her granddaughters own decor endeavors. Yet, it was during the Christmas season Jan truly flourished, transforming her home into a magical winter wonderland.
Jan’s love for travel and exploring led her to spend most weekends boating, camping, or hiking. Family vacations were a beloved tradition. Their yearly trips to Branson or Lake of the Ozarks were some of her favorites memories where they'd gather with family and friends. Eventually, Ron and Jan settled in Arizona, making it their home for several years. Among countless cherished memories, perhaps non were more cherished than moments spent dancing with Ron, her beloved husband both on and off the dance floor for over 55 years.
Jan’s boundless energy and generosity knew no bounds. Whether she was volunteering at church, advocating for positive change in her communities through civil and city planning, or pioneering exercise programs in every community she lived in, Jan was a true trailblazer. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to become one of the first female real estate agents in the area and later to found and successfully run her own real estate appraisal business. Throughout her life, Jan exemplified the importance of giving back and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed.
Above all, Jan’s unwavering faith and commitment to her family were the cornerstones of her life. Active in her church community, she instilled those values of faith and resilience in her children, grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of making a difference in the lives of others.
Jan was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ron, and her parents, Wilford and Elaine. She is survived by her son (Chad & Shannon Tope), daughter (Carey & Brett Barber), her grandchildren (Hannah & Ryan Schorg, Kelsey & Alec Nicolet, Jackson Harris, Carter Tope, Weston Barber, Brooklyn Barber) and her sisters (Eileen & Dave Peters, and Caroline & Perry Guptill).
There will be a Celebration of Life service on Thursday, May 23rd at 11 AM with a luncheon to follow at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Pkwy West Des Moines, Iowa 50266
For those unable to attend in person, you may view a livestream of the service at https://wdm.lutheranchurchofhope.org/specialevents/
The family extends their heart felt gratitude to Hospice Austin - Christopher’s House for their compassionate care and support provided to Jan during her final journey home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Austin - Christopher’s House in Austin, TX, or the ALS Association.
Hospice Austin Christopher's House: https://www.hospiceaustin.org/get-involved/donate/
ALS Association: https://www.als.org/
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