Jana Christensen
Jana Christensen died peacefully in her daughter's home on June 27, 2010 at the age of 58. Jana was born December 18, 1951 in American Fork, Utah to Clifford Cecil Christensen and Joyce Abel Christensen. She was one of four children. Jana graduated from American Fork High School in 1969, and then earned her Bachelor's degree in education from Brigham Young University. While an undergraduate, she spent a semester abroad in Spain. She later taught English as a second language in the Los Angeles Public School System for several years. Jana went on to earn her Master's and Doctoral degrees from BYU in Psychology. She worked as a school psychologist at Grandview and Canyon Crest Elementary schools for over 25 years, where she was loved by all who knew her. As a licensed psychologist, she also did individual counseling. Her combination of intelligence and compassion helped her excel at her profession. Jana was also a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and strived to live a truly Christ-like life.
Jana was a loving daughter, sister, and loyal friend. She felt that her greatest achievement and joy were her two children, Alicia and Chad. Jana cherished them and continually put their needs above her own. Jana loved her children unconditionally. She instilled in them the qualities of acceptance and love for people from all walks of life. Despite significant personal trials, she remained courageous, strong, hopeful, and forgiving. Jana was always there for those of us who were struggling or in need. She was truly a beautiful person inside and out and had a profound effect on all those privileged to know her.
Jana was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Clifford and Joyce, and her beloved brother, Dale. She is survived by her children, Alicia and Chad, her closest friend and "sister", Dawnne, and her brothers, Scott and Alan . She is also survived by her granddaughter, Ava, who always made her grandma smile.
Funeral services will be held Friday, July 2, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Anderson and Sons Mortuary (49 E 100 N, American Fork, UT 84003). The viewing will be held at the same location at 9:45 a.m. on the day of services. Interment will take place at American Fork Cemetery. If interested, donations may be made to the American Lung Association in lieu of flowers. This may be done via their website (www.lungusa.org), or by check made out to American Lung Association, National Headquarters (American Lung Association, 1301 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004). Please send a note with mailed donations indicating the donation is in memory of Jana Christensen and that a memorial acknowledgement card be sent to Alicia and Chad Christiansen care of Anderson and Sons Mortuary. Online condolences may be sent at andersonmortuary.com
I was out of town last week and was so sad to hear of Jana's death while I was away. What a joy she was and how much she contributed to the well-being of children in Provo over many years. I was blessed to work with Jana when we "opened" Canyon Crest Elementary. Jana was not only the school's counselor but was every teacher's choice advisor. She was a woman of enormous capacity with a heart full of love and with exceptional skills and talent for helping children to learn and grow. I was so blessed by her influence in my life. I wish comfort for Alicia and Chad as they remember their sweet Mom.
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I was saddened to hear of the passing of Jana. Her life has been a wonderful one of learning, caring, and service. As a fellow psychologist, I can appreciate the many hours she has given to helping others to have a healthier life. She will be missed and her legacy will live on as those she has helped reach out to help others.
When I first moved to Alpine at age 13 Jana was the only girls my age. She quickly became my best friend. She introduced me to all her friends and because of her I never felt lonely in a new town, school or ward. We talked about building a road over the hills to connect our two houses so it would be easier to get together. We sang songs together, fortunately she had a good voice, and took turns being the president of the Beehive, MiaMaid and Laurel classes. I tried to get in touch with her before my husband and I went on our mission but I must not have had the correct number because I was not able to talk with her. I wish we could come to honor her at her funeral but my husband and I are in California with his Dad right now so won't be able to attend. Our thoughts are with you now. Your Mom set a wonderful example of a caring friend.
I was sorry to read about the loss of Jana. My condolences go out to the family. I was a classmate of hers in the class of '69 and will always remember her great personality and friendly smile. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
I have known Jana since we were in Junior High. What a wonderful great lady she became. May our Heavenly Father be with the family during this time of their loss. She will be missed.
Sorry to hear of the loss of our classmate. Jana was a strong, great women!
I am so glad she was able to be at our last class reunion.
She will be missed by us all! RIP sweet friend.
I was very sorry to hear about Jana. I have been friends with her for over 40 years. She was a wonderful person and the world is a better place because of her