Janet Marie Bertoncini Mitchell Meyer, fondly known as Jan, graced this world with her presence on September 26, 1943, in La Jolla, California, born to the late Ernest Andrew and Janet Eva Knipe-Bertoncini. As the great, great, great granddaughter of Don Juan Maria Osuna, the first alcade (mayor) of the newly-formed pueblo of San Diego in 1834, Jan carried with her a rich legacy. It is with heavy hearts that we announce her peaceful passing on March 7, 2024, at the age of 80.
Jan was well loved by many. She was beautiful, brave, kind, and had a sense of humor beyond compare. Her infectious laughter and cool Southern California demeanor were irresistible, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Preceded in death by her parents, Jan also mourned the loss of her first husband, Lieutenant James McNally Mitchell (Jimmy). High school sweethearts at San Dieguito High School, Jimmy and Jan had a bright future as a USMC Military couple stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii. Tragedy struck on August 31, 1965, when Jimmy lost his life in the Vietnam War, just 42 days after the birth of their daughter, Erin. Jan's profound love and grief found expression in her heartfelt tribute, "The Last Stamp," a beautiful and treasured legacy written for Erin in Jimmy’s memory.
Jan's life journey was marked by compassion and resilience. A cancer survivor, advocate for recovery, and a brave fighter against Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia, she moved to North Carolina in 2015 to be cared for by Erin and her family. Her unwavering spirit endured battles with COVID, a stroke, and the challenges of verbal communication. Throughout, she displayed an incredible attitude and an ability to cope with adversity that inspired all who knew her.
A lover of all people, especially the vulnerable, Jan's empathetic connection stemmed from her own experiences with life's trials and tribulations. Her heart extended to animals, with a particular affection for cats, evident in the many she took in and cared for over the years.
Jan leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion. She is survived by her devoted children, Erin Lisa Mitchell Rhode (Scott Rhode) and Brandon Erik Meyer (Karen Meyer); her beloved grandchildren, Kye Mitchell, Chase Meyer, and Ally Lauren Rhode, Jeff Treganowan (d. 2021) ; and her rescued flame point Siamese, William. Additionally, she is survived by retired FBI agent Ronald W. Meyer of Las Vegas, Nevada, her former husband of 25 years and Brandon’s father.
Jan's love for her family and loyal friends was immeasurable. As she transitions to her eternal resting place, we find solace in the thought of her being welcomed with open arms by Jesus, Jimmy, Janet, and Ernie.
A final farewell will take place as Jan is laid to rest in Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, California, overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean, beside Lieutenant Mitchell. A future gathering to celebrate the full and vibrant life of Janet B. Meyer will be organized and communicated. In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions can be made to Catholic Charities USA at catholiccharitiesusa.org and the US Humane Society at humanesociety.org, causes close to Jan's compassionate heart. May her memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to all who were touched by her extraordinary life.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared below within "Add a Memory" for the Rhode and Meyer family.
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