Jane Ann Aldrich

Jane Ann Aldrich left her earthly life on Sept. 3, 2022, at Maple Springs Wasilla, Alaska, after a three month battle with aggressive glioblastoma brain cancer. Jane Ann was born in Eureka, Kan., on Nov. 20, 1947, to Carl David Aldrich and Mary Jane McMahan Aldrich. She graduated from Borger High School and went on to attend Oklahoma State University where she earned a degree in education. She moved to Alaska in 1970, and began her teaching career. Jane Ann taught in Kenai, Anchorage and Mat-Su. She retired in 2005, after almost 40 years in the classrooms. She was an exemplary teacher and students have fond memories of their time in her classroom. Jane Ann was a member of the 49th State Street Rodders Club, Cook Inlet Kennel Club and Journey Church. You could find her at a car show most summer Saturdays showing Tillie, her 1938 Chevy Coupe. If she wasn't at a car show she was walking one her beloved Shih Tzus. She owned many over the years: Peanuts, Rockee, Tucker, Missy May and her most recent addition to the pack, Ellie. She was a willing participant in many hobbies and crafts: gardening, alcohol ink painting, fused glass, cross stitch, pottery, macrame, knitting and beading, but she drew the line when introduced to copper enamel. The blow torch was more than she could handle. Jane Ann was predeceased by her mother; father; and brother, Carl David Aldrich Jr. She is survived by life partner of more than 30 years, John Holcomb of Wasilla; his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Sue Anne of Grand Junction, Colo.; nieces, Kimberlee and husband Scott of Dallas, Texas, Dava Sue and husband Orrin of Grand Junction, and Kristina Lewis of Fletcher, Okla.; four grandnieces; two grandnephews; and three great-grandnieces. Jane Ann loved her family and friends! She was always kind and generous to others. She will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, at 2 p.m., at Mat-Su Evangelical Church, 5201 East Mayflower Lane in Wasilla. Refreshments to follow. Donation may be made to your local animal rescue or cancer research.