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1928 ~ 2004
Jan Ringholz, our beautiful mother, passed away October 12, 2004 in the loving presence of her partner, Bill Seifrit and her six children.
Jan was born September 24, 1928 in Los Angeles
to Roger and Helen Lyter Pile. She attended Glendale High School and UCLA where she was a Pi Phi. She married Joseph F. Ringholz on February 14, 1948. They were divorced in 1974. She then fell in love with William C. (Bill) Seifrit and they shared more than 25 years together.
Her accomplishments were many and varied. She was proudest of helping her six children achieve the best start they could in their own lives. Jan was an inspiration to the many people she met. Her professional career was devoted to helping others, especially women troubled by substance abuse and domestic violence. Jan was a pioneer in the certification process for drug and alcohol counselors and among the first licensed in Utah. She also helped form and maintain study circles in her field.
Jan's mind was always actively engaged. She loved to read, go to garage sales and knit but was devastated by her paralysis and the progressive loss of her vision. Jan was devoted to the arts in Utah, and was, for many years, a season ticket holder to the ballet, symphony and several theatres. In her maturity, Jan was an enthusiastic traveler, visiting nearly every Utah county and small community. She followed her lifelong dream of exploring many Indian sites and restorations in the Western US.
Other accomplishments include Junior League membership with service as a Pink Lady, and participation in the KUER Marching Band, Daria Book Club and St. Nicholas Guild of St. Ambrose Parish. Jan was an avid collector of art and antiques with a particular fondness for glass baskets. She truly loved to sit in the sun and could entice birds to her with her whistle.
She is survived by her longtime companion and constant caregiver, Bill Seifrit and her children: Cynthia (Chris) Cunningham, Portland, Oregon; Jane (Kenn) Poznar, Monroe, Oregon; Joseph Paul (Sherry) Ringholz, Taylorsville, Utah; Mary Ann (Michael) Garrett, Murray, Utah; Michael Ringholz, Wendover, Utah; John Ringholz, SLC, Utah; twelve grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and Lexie, her beloved puppy.
Jan was selfless to the end and donated her body to the University of Utah for educational and research purposes. A private service will be held at a later date.
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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Assistance League of SLC, 2060 East 3300 South, SLC, UT 84109 or to Utah Museum of Fine Arts, 410 Campus Center Drive, SLC, UT 84112 in Jan's name. Thank you to the many people who cared for Jan and made her life more comfortable. You are all truly appreciated.