Jean Estella TOLAND

TOLAND, Jean Estella (Olsen)
May 5, 1925 - July 9, 2010
A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, she is survived by husband James R. S. Toland, daughter Tanis, son Terry, and grandchildren Sarah and Shannon. Born in Spokane, Wash., to Charles and Estella Olsen, in her youth she was active in the International Order of Job's Daughters, (Bethel No. 1 of Spokane), Camp Fire Girls, ballet, and church and college choir. Jean graduated from Lewis & Clark High School in Spokane and Stephens College, Mo., where she was a member of AOTT. Jean and Jim met at San Jose State and their romance turned into marriage over 60 years ago. They moved to Concord, Calif., in 1964 and remained there until 2008. After college, Jean worked as an Occupational Therapist. A gifted teacher, she volunteered with special education children in grammar schools and teens at risk in high schools and was recognized with a School Bell Award. A leader in Camp Fire Girls, she also supported Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts. Jean was active at Concord United Methodist Church and First United Methodist Church in Sacramento, supporting the United Methodist Women, Side-By-Side with the Homeless ministries, and Family Promise. She was also active in Concord Camellia Club, Concord Camera Club, and Lafayette Suburban Women's Club. As well as being a fine artist and a poet, Jean could handle it all, from working the nozzleman's job on Jim's fire engine to walking the halls of Congress as a lobbyist. Her laughter and love will be cherished in the hearts of many.