Janice Ann Wheeler

September 17, 1940 - November 28, 2017

Janice Ann Wheeler 1940-2017 Janice Ann Wheeler (Jan) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 17, 1940, to Helen Elizabeth and Thomas Courtney Wheeler. She passed peacefully on November 28, 2017. She is preceded in death by her older sister, Elizabeth Adele Wheeler and survived by her brother Rick Millard Wheeler, her daughter Betsey O’Brien, and two grandchildren GT and Melin Arias, as well as her niece, Kirsten Adele Peterson and grand-niece, Adele Reynolds. Jan was like a grandmother to all of Kirsten’s step-children, Seth, Anthony, Kistina, and Timothy Reynolds. Jan was beloved for her direct witty style and tender sweet heart. Jan strongly believed in human rights and was an early activist for women’s liberation, racial justice, and LGBTQ equality. She was a master craftswoman, creating numerous works of art including mobiles, wind chimes, jewelry, and hair accessories. As a conservationist, she used her materials carefully, often re-purposing interesting bits into her work. She sold her wares at many local fairs. Jan’s love for beauty and light was reflected in her passion for collecting depression glassware, and for many years she bought and sold at local swap meets. Using both her artistic talents and mathematical abilities, she supported herself as a drafts person and bookkeeper. She enjoyed gardening, camping out, and family gatherings. In her final days, she was very well loved and tended to by the staff at Cottonwood Creek, and Good Shepard hospice. Special thanks to Dr. VanHala, Barbara, and Jenna for helping Jan with skill and affection. In lieu of sending flowers or cards, we encourage you to make a donation on her behalf to Planned Parenthood Utah (https://secure.ppaction.org/site/Donation2?df_id=24415&24415.donation=form1&s_designeeid=1152).