Janet “Jan” Mathews, a cherished resident of Vashon Island, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 5th, 2024, at the age of 91.
Jan, born on April 13th, 1933, in Seattle, Washington, to Thelma Bias and Eugene Capps, dedicated her life to her beloved family. “Janny” as she was known by her many friends at Roosevelt High School, graduated in 1951 and was active in many school clubs and service organizations. In 1952, Jan was lucky enough to marry her true partner in life, Norman “Norm” Mathews. Jan and Norm’s first years together were spent serving their country in the United States Coast Guard in Ketchikan, Alaska, where their first son, Tom, was born.
After completing Norm’s Coast Guard service, Jan and Norm returned to the Seattle area for several years before settling on Vashon Island, where they raised five children, Tom (Julie Groh), Jay (deceased), Vicki (Betty Stewart), Cindy (Dick Swenson), and Cheryl. They also shared in the joy of their seven grandchildren (Clay, Katie, Colin, Jay, Jarrod, Caroline, and Christina) and ten great-grandchildren. Jan was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Norm, and by her beloved brother, Allen Capps of Tacoma, whose memories she cherished daily.
In 1965, Jan and Norm realized their dream of running their own grocery store when, with the help of Norm’s lifelong best friend Tom Barwick and Tom’s wife Ann, they were able to purchase Vashon Thriftway on Vashon Island. Growing Vashon Thriftway into an award-winning grocery store was a true labor of love for Jan and Norm, and it didn’t take long for them to become active members of the close-knit Vashon Island community. Vashon Thriftway remains owned and operated by the family to this day.
Jan was a matriarch who truly embodied the spirit of family unity and love. Above all, she cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring she was a constant, loving presence in their lives. Her passion for her family knew no bounds; she was their most enthusiastic supporter, attending countless sporting events, recitals, school plays, and graduations. Jan also loved attending Seattle Mariners games, and spent many spring training and regular season games cheering alongside her family. Each event was a treasure, a memory she held close to her heart.
She celebrated the achievements of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, big and small, with a warmth and pride that only a mother and grandmother could give. To her family, she was more than just a mother and grandmother; she was a confidant, a source of wisdom, and an endless well of love. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and unconditional love will forever inspire her family.
Jan and Norm were faithful supporters of Vashon community organizations over their 59 years on Vashon Island, and their legacies will live on in the countless lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Jan’s memory be honored through a donation to the Vashon Community Scholarship Foundation. Donations to the Vashon Community Scholarship Foundation can be made online or by mail at P.O. Box 1413, Vashon, WA 98070.
Memories of Jan can be shared on the Tribute Wall at www.yahnandson.com. At Jan’s request, a private service will be held for immediate family at Mountain View Cemetery in Auburn.
April 13, 1933 – September 5, 2024
