Jan Specht

Janet Claire (Crooks) Specht

March 10, 1937 – May 7, 2026

Jan Specht of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on May 7, 2026, at the age of 89.

Jan was born on March 10, 1937, in Los Angeles, California, to James P. and Blanche Fay (Johnson) Crooks. She earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from the University of Oregon. Jan married the love of her life, Glen, and the couple raised two daughters, Sandy and Sharon. Glen’s career moved the family to Baytown, then Kingsville, and finally Midland (all in Texas). The couple later moved to Littleton, Colorado, and then Wind Crest retirement community in nearby Highlands Ranch.

An active member of her community, Jan found fulfillment in various roles. She enjoyed golf and cycling and was active in the Geological Wives Association. She served as a Girl Scout leader and sang in the church choir of the First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas.

Jan's love for gardening was a theme throughout her life. She was active in various garden clubs and the neighborhood landscaping and architectural committee, and she engaged with the Wind Crest community garden. Her gardens extended beyond personal showpieces to community spaces she tended for the enjoyment of her neighbors.

Jan enjoyed cross stitch and often passed the time traveling by working on her latest piece. Her creations included beautiful samplers celebrating the birth of each of her grandchildren. She enjoyed other needlecrafts including quilting and knitting and enjoyed learning new craft skills throughout her life. She took up beading and jewelry making and passed her knowledge—and many, many beads!— to her granddaughter, Kathryn. Jan created many handmade gifts for family and friends throughout her life that remain as cherished reminders of her love and thoughtfulness.

Jan believed that written correspondence was a tangible gift from the heart and made sure to send personal notes for birthdays, holidays, and “just because.” She never met a stranger and if you happened to sit next to her on an airplane, by the time it landed she would know your name, reason for traveling, occupation, hobbies, family members, pets, and what you had for dinner last night. If you were having trouble she would pray with you, and if you were celebrating she was joyful with you.

Jan enjoyed travel, both in the USA and abroad. She played a key role in family vacations, packing the cooler and making lunches on the road, managing the 8-track tape playlist, and acting as chief navigational officer with paper maps that she somehow managed to re-fold in some semblance of original order. She taught her children and grandchildren to appreciate the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park and the simple elegance of quaking aspen leaves fluttering in the breeze. A trip to the Galapagos Islands was a highlight of Jan and Glen’s retirement trips and one of her fondest memories.

Jan’s beloved grandchildren Madeline, Thomas, and Kathryn were the light of her life and the future she cherished most. She shared with them her love for animals and nature, cooking, card games, reading, and music. She encouraged them to not only pursue educational goals but also activities and hobbies that would bring fulfillment and joy.

Jan's life was a testament to love, faith, and the beauty of a life well-lived. As we celebrate Jan's remarkable life, we remember her warmth, her laughter, and her unwavering dedication to those she held dear.

Jan was preceded in death by her husband Glen. She is survived by daughters Sandy Halvorson and Sharon Tunnell, and grandchildren Thomas, Kathryn, and Madeline. The family is planning a private service. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or your favorite charity.