Jane Wyatt

Jane Wyatt, 77, passed away from cancer in Des Moines on May 2, 2020. The daughter of Arthur and Hazel Horka, Jane was born in Chicago and raised in Des Moines. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1960 and immediately entered the Iowa Methodist School of Nursing and began a 47 Year career with Iowa Methodist Hospital as an RN. Jane began as a floor nurse, eventually became a shift supervisor, was involved in opening Iowa Methodist’s neighborhood clinic on Merle Hay Road, worked as a marketing representative in Iowa Methodist’s Corporate Health Services, and closed her career as Director of Occupational Medicine in West Des Moines.

Jane was a person of many colors, just like the flowers and plants she so dearly loved. One of this Master Gardener’s greatest joys was each Spring, ordering her plants to gently coax into growing and transforming her yard into a magical garden. She loved her garden shed, complete with a chandelier, and would sit and observe her beautiful spot. Watching the birds as they reaped happiness from the smorgasbord of food she provided for them, she took great joy in watching them raise their families. She sometimes cursed the rabbits and other furry creatures who would invade her garden.

She loved following along with the hatching of the Eagle’s eggs – always knowing exactly when each egg hatched. And the bears of Katmai National Park, which she loved to watch on her computer. Nature was her friend, as she was to nature.

Jane was a fabulous nurse, smart, both book wise and street smart. She could see beyond the words of her patients. She had a keen sense about people and looked for what her patients weren’t saying to get to the root of a problem. Although she could be “no nonsense”, her heart was soft as witnessed by those she took outstanding care of each day. Jane loved being a nurse and was proud of it. Proud of her fellow nurses too, many whom she “raised”. Anyone who had the privilege of having her for a mentor knows exactly what that means. She was a wonderful teacher to those of us who were greenhorn nursing students or brand new grads. She would make you think, but was there to steady you. She was a wealth of knowledge always willing to share.

Jane was generous to a fault. She remembered folks who helped her out during rough times and never forgot their generosity. She believed in “paying it forward” and she did. She was willing to help at any time.

Jane lived a full life and had many interests. She loved to read, her books were her friends, and she was always willing to share a good book. Drinking a coffee and chatting with those she loved was one of her favorite things. Of course it was all the better with a bear claw from the Highland bakery, or over a meal at her beloved Christopher’s. She would listen close and remember what one said - big shoulders she had. She was supportive with her quiet listening, soft questions, and proposals for looking at the situation a little differently. And most times, she was so right.

Jane loved her sports and was an avid follower of college football and the Drake Bulldogs basketball. Round ball as she called it. She was a wealth of knowledge with stats, coaches and players and sometimes followed 3 games at once on her TV, computer and radio.

Her dogs were her children. She loved them fiercely and was a wonderful mom to them. She was incredibly generous with supporting the Humane Society as well as other rescue groups. She had a special place in her heart for horses as well and loved to ride.

Jane had many friends from many walks of life. She loved to travel and enjoyed many trips. She worked hard and played hard too. She was a gift given to those of us who knew her. She enriched the lives she touched and all were better for knowing her. We love her and will miss her. But we will see her in the colors of the blooming flowers and the happy wag of a dog’s tail.

Jane is survived by her sister, Judie Horka; a wonderful and caring Jessica Ireland (Jane called Jessica her adopted daughter); and many friends, especially those who helped her greatly during her brief illness. Many thanks to Deb White for this lovely tribute.

In lieu of a memorial service, Jane invites her friends for a Celebration of Life meal at Christopher’s Restaurant, 2816 Beaver Ave. in Des Moines, Iowa when restaurants are open and are able to receive groups. Jane simply wanted to thank her friends and fellow employees for their years of friendship.

Memorials can be made to the Animal Rescue League, 5452 NE 22nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50313. Condolences at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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