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 )