Helen J Holen

Helen Joanne Holen was born on September 12th, 1929 in Altadena, California. Almost immediately she disliked her name – Helen Holen – believing it sounded like a beanbag toss game. She preferred to be referred to as Jo. Her 2nd grade students also knew her as “The Dragon Lady” and Mrs. Burt. Jo passed away on November 20th in her home, surrounded by a lot of love. Jo grew up in the Altadena area of Los Angeles and attended the University of California at Berkeley where, in 1951, she earned a degree in psychology. In 1956 she had her first son, Jim, and a year later, her daughter, Sharon. Ten years later Jo gave birth to her second son, Tracy. By 1969 the family had relocated from Oakland to Newport. Jo worked as a elementary school teacher for 10 years in Oakland, California. She continued in the profession for another 20 years working for the Lincoln County School District, first at Delake Elementary in Lincoln City. However, most of her time was spent at Yaquina View Elementary in Newport. After retiring she worked part time at the Newport Public Library, from 1988 to 1993. She had many fond memories of the people she worked with at the library and often said it was the perfect job. Jo was a member of many environmental groups and loved dogs. She would be pleased if any friends would remember her by contributing a small donation to the local animal shelter. Jo loved listening to her children tell stories of their adventures, spending time in her garden, and reading. She was very fond of the staff at Coco Moca Joes, Toledo Feed & Seed, Canyon Way, and the folks at JC Market. Jo also loved her chats with Elizabeth and Jessie. The family is very grateful for the assistance and company these ladies provided Jo over the years. Jo is survived by her son Jim (Newport), daughter Sharon (Newport), son Tracy (Kim, Waldport), and grandson, Jesse (Andrea, Newport). She was also very fond of Steve (Lobster Valley), who lived with the family when Tracy and Steve were miscreant teenagers. Grand-dogs Meeka, Zira, and Ruger will miss treats and playtime at Grandma Jo’s place. A memorial is planned at 5pm on December 11th at the Newport Performing Arts Center. Please come by and share your memories of Jo with family. Refreshments will be served.

Tributes

Helen J Holen

September 12, 1929 - November 20, 2023