Janet V. Kutina, age 84 of Bainbridge Island, Washington passed away peacefully on Jan. 7, 2017 at home surrounded by the love of her family. She was preceded in death by her husband John, her “darling boy”.

She was born and raised in Southern California, graduated from the University of Southern California, and dedicated her life to caring for others. She lovingly raised her two sons and managed a happy household as the family moved frequently throughout the United States in support of her husband’s career.

Janet was elegant and compassionate, brilliant and witty, a lifelong learner, politically astute, a Jeopardy and Crossword Puzzle whiz, a developmental teacher, generous volunteer, and grateful member of the Eagle Harbor Congregational Church.

During her 26 years of volunteering on Bainbridge Island, she worked for the Seattle Children’s Hospital “Bargain Boutique” clothing consignment area and she co-founded the Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers’ program “Flowers from the Heart”, where she arranged and delivered flowers to brighten peoples’ days. In addition, she cooked many large meals for her church youth group, for Mary’s Place Women’s Shelter in Seattle, and for Habitat for Humanity.

Janet was a devoted wife and heroic caregiver for her husband for years before he died. She was a loving mother, adoring and involved grandmother and true friend. Her intrepid spirit, intellect and humor lives on in our hearts.

She is survived by her sons Stephen (wife Sherri; sons Thomas (wife Felicia, new baby daughter Mila) and Benjamin) and William (wife Suzanne, daughter Elizabeth) and her sisters Jo Ann Varney and Judy Rettig and their families.

In accordance with her wishes, Janet’s ashes will be co-mingled with her husband John’s and spread by her family in the Puget Sound. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.