I have not had any recent contact with Jan. We shared time together at BYU and were roommates with A. Garner Olesen, Ted Cottle and Jerry Jackson (?). My prayers go out to his family.

Dear Barb and family,
I got to share grandchildren with Jan. He was a dedicated grandfather and good man. I watched him go to every event he could to support his grandchildren even when you could tell he was in alot of pain. His example of his bravery through his suffering has set a standard for me. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I love Richard Jan Thurston as my "BYU Dad".  I'm so grateful for his influence and the influence of the entire Thurston family in my life.  I look forward to seeing him and all of you again!

Dear Barbara, We are deeply sorry to hear of the loss of your dear husband. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  It is such a comfort to know that we will be with our loved ones again. May our Heavenly Father bless and comfort you always.

Barbara, kids and extended family: I am sorry to learn too late of Jan's health struggles and passing. My faith and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.  Gloria Evans and Family.

I only met Jan a few times, but he made a strong impression. We are both descendants of the Norwegian pioneer Tora Thurston. When I published Tora's history, Jan not only purchased copies for all his children, he made a special effort to visit me in Southern California and thank me for it. He is clearly someone who made the world a better place.

Christine and I have known Jan since our college days.  He was a true Christian gentlemen and a wonderful Latter-day Saint.  The world is the poorer without him.

Bruce L. Olsen

The BYU Emeriti Alumni were blessed by the service of Jan for many years.  He was always helpful and willing to share ideas on the events.  He was friendly to all and able to express his interest in the role BYU played in his life.  We are grateful for the association over the years with a good man.

I remember my association with Jan at BYU Continuing Education with fondness - he was a kind and good man and friend.  I am surprised and sorrowed at his passing and send my condolences to his family.

I served with Jay at the Welfare Sq Employment Resource Center. It was truly a blessing to get to know him and more importantly be my friend. He was always such a pleasure be be around. I will miss you Jay.

Jan, sold me some of his basketball seats to BYU games for many years, he was always so great to deal with & had a wonderful spirit about him.

I was fortunate to know and work with Jan during the 2010 Census. What a great influence he was on all of us. He will be missed.

Jan was a dear and memorable friend and classmate.  His passing is very, very hard to hear about.  Our prayers, from afar, are with Barbara and the family.

I worked with Jan during the 2010 Census. Jan, you are the greatest. I'll miss you.

Jan was my grandma's brother and she loved him so much. I am sorry to hear about his passing but very great full he made it till Miles and Camille made it home from their mission. He will be very deeply missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Jan and I were close friends in Jr High and High School, played in the band together and were roommates at BYU for 2 years. He was a positive influence in my life.  We wrote while we were in the service and on missions and double dated in HS and Univ.  Great memories!! A significant loss. My best to all his family.

Jan was a dear friend, a gentle soul and made my life so much richer for having known him.  May the Lord bless his family with comfort.  My love to Barbara and their children.  I should have been a better friend.

Barbara, Patrick, Amy, Lisa and Family,
I am sad to hear about Jan's passing.  I know that although it must be a comfort that he has been released from his suffering, there is a huge void in your hearts this week.  At times like these, we are all grateful for the Plan of Salvation and eternal families.  I have to admire his valiant battle to spend as much time on earth with the companion he loved.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Sincerely, Jeff Nalwalker and family.

I have the wonderful opportunity to work with Jan Thurston while he served at the LDS Employment Center.  What a great man he was. He inpsired individuals to do better. He was loved by all who he served.  He will be missed.  Our prayers are with the family.

OBITUARY

R. Jan Thurston

Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary

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