Janet Rae (Olson) Watson
December 4, 1939 – June 22, 2025
Janet Rae Watson
Janet Rae Watson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones. Born December 4, 1939, in Valley City, North Dakota, to Oscar and Anne (Grotting) Olson, Janet was raised with strong values of faith, hard work, and generosity. As the second of seven children, she spent her youth on the family farm, helping with chores and developing a lifelong commitment to serving others.
After graduating from College High School and attending Valley City State College, Janet moved to Seattle in 1959, working at Boeing on the Minuteman Missile Program. In 1966, she married Doyle Watson, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and community. They helped establish Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and its Christian school in Kirkland, Washington, where Janet later dedicated decades of her life to early childhood education and care.
Janet was a gifted homemaker, seamstress, gardener and baker who lovingly preserved her Norwegian heritage through traditional holiday treats and crafts. She cared for over 100 children in her home daycare, raised four devoted children, and joyfully supported her five grandchildren at countless events. Her home was always open, her camera always ready, and her heart always full.
A proud Norwegian, Janet was known for her sense of humor, unfiltered honesty, and ability to connect with everyone she met. She was the glue that held generations together chronicling family history, labeling heirlooms, and keeping traditions alive.
Doyle and Janet
Janet is survived by her husband Doyle, 4 children: Jason (Julia), Jennifer (Jeff), Justin (Brian), and Darcy (Stephen). Her 5 grandchildren: Griffin, Ashley, Noelle, Jack and Aaron. Her sisters Beverly Strand, Linda (Bob) Nagle and Lylanne Krebs.
She was preceded in death by her mother Anne, father Oscar, brothers Dale, Gary and Steve.
Janet will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
The Watson family is grateful for the outpouring of love, messages, cards, prayers and visits from our family and friends throughout Mom’s Alzheimer’s journey. Thank you to the staff at Jefferson House, Evergreen Hospital and Evergreen Health Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in Janet’s name. ( Alzheimer’s Association )
5 Responses to “Janet Rae (Olson) Watson”
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My memories of Janet will always hold a special place in my heart. She welcomed me like one of the family and was there for me when I needed a safe harbor. One of my special memories was watching her enthusiasm during Christmas and celebrating her Norwegian traditions. No one had a kinder heart than Janet. The world has lost a truly special lady.
I pretty much grew up in the Watson house at a young age. They always made me feel safe at their house. The Watsons are an awesome family! She will be missed ! Heaven has received a beautiful angel.
I have so many wonderful memories with my cousin Janet. She really was one of the best. You will be missed.
Janet was so good to us when we were growing up in her church community. How many times did she drive us to and from events (in that legendary red van!) and help coordinate, support, and run youth group activities? I remember her taking us to the mall, which often included a stop at McDonalds–always so generous and supportive. I remember her infectious laugh and her lovingly crafted Norwegian baked goods. She was among the adults who shaped my growing-up years, and I will always remember her with real fondness and gratitude. I’m thinking about her family in this time of mourning, wishing them peace and strength.
I have so many fond memories of Janet from when I was growing up! She was my best friend Darcy’s mom– a best friend’s mom can be such an important person in your life! She was warm and generous with her time, driving us to choir and orchestra rehearsals and church activities. She worked with other women at our church to create a smorgasbord of Norwegian delicacies to celebrate Syttende Mai. She shared her love of music, beauty, and tradition. I’m sending much love and peace to her family as they mourn her loss.