Janet Loken Brown

1927 - 2015

Jan Brown was born in Oakland, California to Mary and Gilbert Loken. Jan and her sister Nancy were raised by their grandmother, Edna Loken, after the tragic early death of their parents. Jan attended the University of Southern California studying art which she pursued for the rest of her life as a stone carver and sculptor. In 1948 Jan married Colin (Ken) Brown and together they raised three daughters: Debbie, Carrie and Kim. Jan and Ken enjoyed adventures including skiing, kayaking, hiking, hang-gliding, sailing and bicycling. They spent many weekends sailing to the Channel Islands off of southern California. Jan and Ken moved to Washington in 1980 living on Whidbey and Lummi Islands. They helped raise their two grandchildren, Kailyn and James. The grandchildren cherish the beautiful hand sewn clothes Grandma Jan made for them and hope to pass these down to their own children. Jan loved her remarkable circles of friends she had through tennis, book club, stone carving and bridge. As a gifted teacher she shared her love of sculpture and tai chi with her devoted students. We remember her love of cooking and serving delicious meals. Jan was a creative, independent, loving, adventurous and confident person. She brought out the best qualities in people with her compassion and positive outlook on life. Jan is survived by her husband Ken Brown and daughters Debbie Brown, Carrie Christman, Kim Brown and grandchildren Kailyn and James Nicholson. Jan's family and friends will miss her dearly and will be long blessed by her memory. Jan, Mom, Grandma: we will love you forever! A celebration of life will be held at the First Congregational Church in Bellingham on March 21 at 4 p.m. The family suggests that donations be made to the Whatcom Hospice House.