Jana Vanbrakel

Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Jana "Hunny" Atkinson VanBrakel, returned to her Heavenly Father on September 24, 2025, at the age of 77. Jana was born on May 8, 1948, in American Fork, Utah, to Thelbert C. Atkinson and Mercelle Farr Atkinson.
Jana was raised in Pleasant Grove, Utah, where she graduated from Pleasant Grove High School in 1966. During her school years, she was a proud member of the Pep Club and choir. Following graduation, she attended and completed beauty school, developing talents she would share with many throughout her life.
She was first married to Jerry Rand York on May 19, 1967, and together they were blessed with five children. Though later divorced, Jana was grateful for the family they built. Years later, she met her eternal sweetheart, Eric Anthony VanBrakel, and they were married on November 5, 1987. They were blessed with one child. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Utah Temple on November 4, 1989, sealing their love and family for eternity.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jana served diligently in many callings and was always willing to share her time and talents. She had a gift for making every event memorable, whether it was organizing Relief Society bazaars, decorating floats, helping at youth camps, or planning socials. Her service touched countless lives and reflected her deep love for the Savior.
Jana had a radiant spirit and a flair for creativity. She loved decorating, celebrating holidays, movies, music, dancing, crafts, crocheting, and gift-giving. Known for her artistic touch, she created beauty everywhere she went-whether it was through parties, wrapping gifts with perfect ribbons, or baking her famous sugar cookies. She truly added love and joy to life, and as her family says, "She leaves a little sparkle wherever she goes, and adds the glitter to life."
Her family and friends will remember her as "Hunny"-a name that perfectly reflected her sweetness. She was particular in the most charming ways, a true princess at heart, and always centered her life on her love for her Savior.
She is survived by her brother, Arlen Atkinson; her children, Kristen Reynolds (William), Kimberly Johnson (Anthony), Karley Zevenboom (Felix), Trevor York (Misty), Tyler York, and Michael VanBrakel; 22 cherished grandchildren; and 9 precious great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband Eric, daughter in law Morgan, and granddaughter Kylee.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel located at 425 East 500 North, Pleasant Grove, Utah. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing from 9:00–10:45 AM at the church prior to the service. Interment will follow at the Pleasant Grove City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.olpinmortuary.com.
We as a family would like to thank Marian, Ashlyn and Heather with Hospice for their tender loving care of our cute girl "Keep being darling"
Heaven is a more beautiful place today, and the stars shine a little brighter, because Hunny is home.