Janice Olsen

Janice Olsen, born Janice Eileen Sherman, age 68, passed away March 28, 2014 at her home with her family by her side in Laguna Hills, CA after a long battle with multiple myeloma. A memorial service will be held at Zion United Church of Christ in Waukon Sunday, April 27 at 3 p.m. with visitation an hour before services.
Janice was born April 20, 1945 in Waukon to Paul and LaGertha Sherman. She grew up on their family farm and was the eldest of six children.
Through eighth grade she attended a one-room school before attending Waukon High School and then attending Allen College in Waterloo to obtain her degree in nursing. She had fond memories and stories to share about her time in Iowa and on the farm.
Janice moved to California at the age of 22. She was married to Jeffrey Olsen for over 25 years. They had two sons, Jason and Zachary.
Janice was a very dedicated registered nurse for over 45 years, serving many populations with her compassionate spirit. She was an active member of Saddleback Church and was strongly involved in the AIDS hospice ministry there from its inception.
Her interests included time with family, a strong prayer life, art, music and reading. She touched everyone she came in contact with through her kind, gentle and accepting demeanor.
Janice is survived by her brothers, Don, Randy and Mark; her sisters, Sue and Bonnie; her son, Jason; and her son, Zachary, and his wife, Mimi, and step-daughter, Chantelle.
A memorial library is being set up at Saddleback Church, her local church in Lake Forest, CA. It will serve to provide education regarding cancer and AIDS, and provide spiritual support for people dealing with these and other terminal illnesses.