Jana McBride Olson

Jana McBride Olson

February 19, 1951 – April 9, 2011

Jana passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah on April 9^th, 2011 in her home while surrounded by family and friends.  She was born in Coalville, Utah to parents Fredrick Gordon McBride and Hazel Alvira Wootton McBride and was the youngest of four siblings.

She graduated from Jordan High School in 1969 and Utah State University in 1973.  She taught intellectually disabled students from the Jordan School District for 31 years.  Jana loved her students and was an advocate for their rights, often spending personal time and money to ensure they were receiving the best education possible.  She would like to express her thanks to her students for allowing her to learn from them.

Jana enjoyed playing sports in high school and college.  She loved to travel and went to places as near as Moab, Utah and as far away as China.  She was an avid reader, and a talented gardener with a green thumb.  Jana also loved the family cabin, where she spent a great deal of time.  She had a special affection for giraffes, humming birds and all animals.  Everyone who knew her couldn’t help loving her.  She was simply the kindest and best wife, mother, sister and friend anyone could ever be fortunate enough to know.

She was especially devoted to her family and showed them only patience, support and love.  She married Dale R. Olson on November 22^nd, 1974.  She is survived by her husband; two children Ryan D. (Connie) Olson and Kathryn M. (Matt) Olson; sister Sharon (Bill) Allen; brother Brian F. (Carol) McBride; and many nieces and nephews.  Jana loved her pets and considered them to be part of her family.  She leaves behind her pets Rosee, Gus and Mac; and three granddogs Hanna, Bugsy and Louie.

She is preceded in death by pets Tina, Charlie, Cookie, Greta, Spunky, Lily, Casey and Madeline.

Jana and her family would like to express deep thanks to her many loving and devoted friends who were not only a blessing to her during her illness, but throughout the happier times of her life as well.  She also wishes to thank all of the doctors, nurses and assistants who did their best to help during her battle with cancer.

Family and friends are invited to a wake celebrating her life to be held on Saturday, April 16^th from 6 to 8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.

Memorial donations may be made to your local Special Education program or to the Salt Lake County Animal Services, 511 West 3900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84123.