Dorothy Jane Brown

Jane Brown, age 80, died at home May 12 in Tonasket four months after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

Jane was born on Oct. 8, 1930 in Wenatchee to Clarence and Dorothy Travis. When Jane was in eighth grade her family bought an orchard and moved to Tonasket, where she spent the rest of her life. Jane was a Tonasket Tiger cheerleader in high school and salutatorian of her 1948 graduating class. While attending Washington State University she was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and completed her elementary education degree in 1952. Jane met her future husband, Ted Brown, on a water skiing outing at Lake Osoyoos. They were married at the Ellisforde Church of the Brethren in 1953. Jane taught school in Tonasket for 25 years and educated many a Tonasket third grader. Her husband, Ted, passed away in 1986. Upon retiring from teaching, Jane traveled the world, visiting every continent except Antarctica. Among her many adventures she rode an elephant in Thailand, walked on the Great Wall of China, visited the Galapagos Islands and saw the pyramids of Egypt. Jane also enjoyed many trips to Las Vegas and Reno with friends and family. She loved new experiences. Jane attended the Tonasket Community Church and was a member of the Retired Teachers Association. Jane enjoyed knitting and was known for knitting sweaters for baby gifts. One of Jane’s greatest joys was playing bridge with her many friends. She was also an avid reader and loved working in her yard.

Jane is survived by her daughter, Karen Wright (Frank) of Everett; son, Gary (Penny) of Waterville, both whom followed their mom into teaching careers. She had five grandchildren: Marcus, Jessica, Dori, Jacque and Laney; and two great granddaughters: Livia and Esme. Her sister, Mary Waller of Poulsbo, her sister-in-law, Barbara Kniss, of Griswold Conn, a niece and four nephews also survive Jane.

After a private family burial, all are welcome to attend a Celebration of Jane’s Life at the Tonasket Community United Church of Christ, 24 E 4th St, in Tonasket, on Friday, May 20, at 1 pm.

A special thank you to all Jane’s friends and her wonderful hospice team. You were an invaluable help.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amedisys Hospice of Omak, 800 South Jasmine, Omak WA 98841 or Animal Foster Care, POB 3385, Omak, WA 98841 in Jane’s memory. Please share your memories and sign the online guestbook at www.berghfuneralservice.com.

Bergh Funeral Service Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.