JANET CLARK KERR

Janet Clark Kerr died at home on Tuesday, December 8 at age 81.

Janet was a third generation Skagitonian, who was born in La Conner on June 30, 1934 to Harrison and Valborg Brandt Clark. Her immediate family included her two younger sisters, Anita and Elaine, as well as a large extended family with several aunts, uncles and cousins, who have remained close and dear to her throughout her life.

In 1956, Janet married Donald Kerr of Burlington, and together they raised their three children, Debbie, Susan and Jamie. In 1971, Don was offered an opportunity to work in Hawaii, so the family moved to Oahu to experience the culture and history of Hawaii. They returned often, as two of their children made it their homes, and they loved spending time with their grandchildren.

Janet and Don also enjoyed several traveling adventures — a favorite being a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Together, Don and Janet looked forward to leisurely road trips, driving to various destinations around the United States and visiting friends and family.

Janet was a proud graduate of La Conner High School, who continued her education at various universities. Her passion was American Literature, and she enjoyed working at Mount Vernon High School in the library for many years. She was a life-long learner, who kept current with world affairs, politics, literature and sports.

Janet was an avid reader and loved classical music. She had a passion for gardening and tended her rose garden with tender care. She had a special talent for interior design and was a gracious host to all. She enjoyed tennis, golf, Tai Chi, swimming, biking, and power walking.

Janet enjoyed an active social life and belonged to many organizations and groups. She was a member of Fir-Conway Lutheran Church, where she was baptized, confirmed and married. She had many friends who shared a love for fun and adventures. The strong bond of these friendships has spanned for over 70 years and provided encouragement and laughter throughout her life. Janet will be missed by many.

Janet leaves behind her three children and her sister, Elaine, as well as 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Janet was preceded in death by her parents, husband and one sister, Anita.

Memorial services will be held at Fir-Conway Lutheran Church on Saturday, December 19 at 11 a.m. In her honor, memorials may be made to Hospice, Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, La Conner Civic Garden Club or Fir Conway Lutheran Church.

You may share your memories of Janet, and sign her online guest register at http://www.kernfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the care of Kern Funeral Home.