Jeanette Catherine Emter

Jeanette "Jan" was born on March 8, 1934 in picturesque Armstrong, British Columbia to parents Donald and Corina MacDonald. Jan spent her early years in and around Armstrong by visiting many relatives, helping her beloved father with farm chores or just playing around on the family's adventurous 78 acres of land. Jan attended school in town and graduated from Armstrong High School in 1952. Although she refused to admit it, Jan was an accomplished basketball player and high jumper in high school, who also attracted many looks from various Hockey and LaCross players, which Canada is very well known for. Wanting to experience the big city life, Jan ventured south and moved to Portland, OR in 1958. In 1960, while still residing in Portland, Jan met a handsome and smooth North Dakotan named, Charles. Later that year, Charles and Jan hopped over the river to Vancouver, WA and tied down briefly in the Fruit Valley area with its abundant apple, pear and filbert orchards. Not long thereafter, Charles and Jan were married on Aug. 21, 1961, and soon to follow were sons, Perry (1962) and Donnie (1964). In Dec. 1964, the new family headed across town to the East Heights neighborhood where Jan made it her home for the next 53 years. In 1973, Charles and Jan decided to go their separate ways, but remained very amable throughout the years. In her spare time, Jan enjoyed traveling, working in her vivacious yard and as a talented artist, spent many hours with canvas and paintbrush in hand. But Jan is probably best known for her ability and eagerness to help others, whatever that may be and always seemed to have a special spot in her heart for people in need. Jan was employed at Clark College in the Financial Aid Department and most recently with Emil Fries Piano Hospital. These experiences allowed her the pleasure to do what she did best - helping others. Jan also enjoyed reminiscing and taking trips with sisters-in-law, Norma and Maureen, as well as dear friends, Anita, Esther and Marlis. And special thanks to wonderful longtime friends, Janis and Clay. Jan was preceded in death by her brother, Norman MacDonald in 2017; and ex-husband, Charles in 2005. She is survived by sons, Perry (Marisa) of LaCenter, WA and Donnie of Vancouver; and not to forget, pet Chihuahua, Junior, who most definitely misses his "Grandma". A Celebration of Life will be held at Evergreen Memorial Gardens on Thurs., Nov. 29th at 2:00 p.m.

Jeanette Catherine Emter

March 8, 1934 - November 6, 2018