Jane Ann Orton (nee Van Meter), 75, of Gig Harbor, Washington passed away on March 27th after complications following cancer surgery surrounded by her loved ones.
Jane was born February 25, 1949, to Louis and Ella Van Meter of Burdette, KS. After graduation from Pawnee Heights High School, she went on to pursue nursing studies at Hutchison Grace School of Nursing. Ultimately her career as a nurse spanned over 40 years.
After finishing nursing school, Jane visited family in the Pacific Northwest, fell in love with the big city, and moved to Seattle permanently in the early-seventies. She landed a nursing job at Group Health Co-op where she forged lasting friendships that would introduce her to future husband, Rob Orton. They wed in 1977, going on to have three children, Katie, David, and John.
Jane wanted nothing more than to be a mother and dedicated her life to her family. She was its foundation and strength. She always knew the right thing to say, made every holiday magical, never missed a special date, and supported everyone's endeavors. Her passion for motherhood carried her seamlessly into the role of beloved grandmother with the birth of her two grandchildren. She deeply cherished being a grandmother.
Jane brought delight to many with her kind and generous spirit. She enjoyed spending time in the garden tending to her roses, going on coffee dates, driving her convertible, shopping for the grandchildren, and entertaining friends and family. Jane genuinely cared for the people around her, she will forever be missed and loved.
Jane is survived by her husband of 47 years, Rob, sons David (Alyssa) and John of Gig Harbor, daughter Katie Pomeroy (Jordan), and two grandchildren, Ella and Jack of Seattle. She is also survived by her brothers David Van Meter (Brenda), John Van Meter (Michelle), niece Angela Keast (Duane), nephews, Justin Van Meter, and Brandon Van Meter (Andrea) of Kansas as well as many more friends and family.
She will be laid to rest at Browne's Grove Cemetery near Burdette, Kansas.