Janet May Hart

Janet "Jan" Hart (née Strickland), aged 80, was called to eternal rest on August 18, 2024, in Edmonds, Washington. Born November 6, 1943, Jan led a life marked by humility, a deep respect for the wonder of creation, and an unwavering gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon her.

Jan spent her early career in social services, later volunteering her time with special needs students, including them in family outings to the zoo, when she knew they wouldn't have that opportunity otherwise. But the job that gave her the most joy was being a mom to her three boys.

She homeschooled them for much of elementary school, and read to them every night. She would sacrifice anything for her sons.

Philanthropy was at her core. Even though she was on a fixed income, Jan contributed to numerous charities close to her heart; Wounded Warriors, orphaned children, and every pet rescue she could find. Because Jan had a soft spot in her heart for all animals, even “adopting” a squirrel she named Shasta, who would come inside the house for treats. And her adoration of all God’s creatures wasn’t limited to the cute and fluffy ones. A few years back, she was delighted to share that she had new squirrel friends who had found their way into her house. But these squirrels didn’t have fluffy tails, in fact, they looked more like mice. And she was heartbroken when told they couldn’t stay.

An avid nature lover, Jan took her children and then later on her grandchildren on numerous road trips to National Parks and camping trips when they were young. Jan’s love of camping didn’t end when her boys grew up. She would frequently join them and their families on camp trips, and could often be seen taking her granddogs on walks with her scooter along trails and rolling over any toes that dared get in the way. Her favorite, Bumble, would actually howl “Gamawah” if Jan ventured from the campsite without her.

Jan was the nicest, kindest person. As her hearing failed, she’d just smile and nod, no matter the question. And she never asked for anything. She might drop hints; “It sure would be nice to have a hamburger right now.” But she was too nice to come right out and ask. And how she loved those hamburgers! McDonalds is surely missing her as much as we are.

Jan had an active social circle, and kept busy with church groups and knitting circles, making baby blankets, hats, and slippers for children’s hospitals. She also sold her wares at the Senior Center storefront where she volunteered, in turn donating the proceeds back to the center.

Her yarn collection took over an entire room in her home, each color carefully labeled as to what its project would be. And those circles are feeling the loss just as much as we are.

Because there were no strangers in Jan’s life, just friends she hadn’t met yet. And once she met you, you were more than a friend, you were family. Somehow there was always a present under the Christmas tree when an unexpected guest arrived. This year, there will be an empty space around the Christmas tree, and an empty space in many hearts.

Jan is survived by her sons Mike Lamusga (Leah) of Covington, Matt Lamusga (Trisha) of Mountlake Terrace, and Mark Lamusga (Jeanette) of Layton, Utah, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Her family will be having a private celebration of her life, and invite you to celebrate Jan’s memory in your own ways.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Post-Polio Health International, 50 Crestwood Executive Ctr. #440, St. Louis, MO 63126