Janet Illgen Carpenter

Janet Illgen Carpenter was a real 20th Century woman, lucky and strong enough to live well into the 21st. Our beloved mother joined her forever husband Jack Carpenter in eternal spirit on February 5th, 2026. We are deeply saddened, yet grateful for the 92 years of adventure, learning and loving she so enjoyed.

Jan arrived November 28, 1933, the eldest of four children adored by their engaging parents, Martin and Margaret. There was much joy in the Oakland Hills Herrier Street house with extended family, picnics and camping. Automobiles played a large roll in Janet’s life from the start. Martin was a mechanic and Margaret worked in an auto shop owned by her uncle, a man with an historical race history himself. Janet, a bright student, enjoyed school, teaching swimming, and working as a lifeguard. While earning her teaching degree at San Jose State, she worked at Capwell’s Department store.

Janet and Jack were married in 1955. Following her graduation in 1956, Janet began her teaching career. She worked for five years teaching kindergarten and first grade before expanding her family with Jack. As their family grew, they moved to their longtime home in Walnut Creek. Janet’s devotion to her three girls was epic. Full of encouragement for their dreams, she was always inspiring and supportive.

A liberal minded feminist, Jan volunteered with UNICEF, La Leche League, World Without War, and Battered Women’s Alternative. She contributed to Saint Pauls Church in the Altar Guild, Folk Choir, day trips and family camping events. She worked diligently to bring Alternative Education into the public school system and, once implemented, began substitute teaching. Jan’s heart and home was always open to anyone who needed extra help, kindness and love.

Jan and Jack’s love of sports cars meant spending family time at the racetrack and countless SCCA and PCA activities. Jan drove an Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint which all the neighborhood kids loved to catch a ride in.

There was much travel to exotic lands with Jack, her favorites being trips with the Rick Steves group, as she loved submerging herself in different cultures and really seeing the world.

In 2018, Jan and Jack moved to Yucca Valley, CA, to enjoy a healthier lifestyle, walking to the senior center and nearby restaurants and shopping. Together in the desert with Heidi, Andy and Olivio, they experienced new adventures with a wonderful community.

2023 brought the happy couple to the Veterans Home of California in West Los Angeles. There they shared a suite and many fun activities until Jack passed on October 27, 2023. Janet remained under the truly amazing care administered by the Home, where her days were full of music, art, friends and family. Janet is survived by her three daughters and their families, Bonnie Jean, husband Ed and son Jack, Nancy Jo, husband Steve, children Lily and Cooper, and Heidi Sue, husband Andy, and son Olivio.

Janet’s final days were peaceful, surrounded by her daughters and all the love in the world. Her ashes will be joined with her beloved Jack’s at the Los Angeles National Cemetery. Services will be held on March 9th, 2026.