Janet Mary Franzen

Janet Mary Franzen passed away with dignity at home Saturday evening, December 9, 2023, after living bravely with cancer during her 85th year. Born June 24, 1938, in California, Janet grew up and lived most of her life near the shores of Puget Sound, which she loved. She graduated from Olympia High School ('56) and the University of Puget Sound ('60). Married to Richard Lyle Franzen in 1960, Janet and Richard had a loving and dynamic life together until Richard's passing in 2012. They raised their son, David Franzen (born 1973), and made homes in Seattle, Iowa City, Chicago, Southern Illinois, Ellensburg, Puyallup, and Tacoma.

For the last several years of her life, Janet lived independently at Seattle's Norse Home. Janet worked to help others, enjoying careers as a first-grade teacher and as the office manager in her husband's audiology practice. She is survived by her son, David.

Janet was a loving and beloved mother and mother-in-law, and she will also be remembered as a cousin, a sister-in-law, an aunt, and a cherished friend to many. A memorial service will be held on January 27, 2024, at New Tacoma Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to the Fred Hutch Cancer Center (https://www.fredhutch.org)