Janet Rae Olson was born May 30, 1942 at New Underwood SD to Robert and Helen Olson

She attended school in New Underwood and excelled at the school of life. On June 28, 1959 she married Boyd Harwood in Rapid City a union which lasted 40 years. Together the enjoyed living in many areas while Boyd worked for Boeing,in Sedalia,MO, which was her favorite and Cheyenne, WY. In 1970 they moved back to the family ranch and built a home south of Union Center where she enjoyed raising baby chicks and her children and grandchildren. This is where she perfected her lawn and garden skills as the garden could feed many friends and family who stopped by often. They moved to Pleasant Valley south of Sturgis in 1989 where She was currently living.

Janet was first and foremost a beloved and busy Mom of four, who she considered to be her greatest accomplishment. She was active in all aspects of her children's lives from 4-H to FHA, FFA, Farmers Union youth groups as well as traveling the motorcycle racing circuit. She chaperoned and served as driver to many functions for many children and helped to shape lives of numerous young people in the community. She was a Mom to many that were not her children and a friend to all. Her greatest achievement that she was most proud of was "She was a good Mom!" She also was active in ABC Women's Club.

She had many achievements in business life. She was a top Watkins Representative in the nation. She was also a lifetime member of Farmers Union and District 5 Education Leader.

Her children accomplished many things for her to be proud of cheer leaders, football players, motorcycle racers, (with two state Moto Cross Championships, one AMA Regional ½ mile champion, FFA officers in Sturgis and New Underwood, two state farmers, one state officer and one American Farmer recipient. She was a long time 4H leader and was proud of all the children who participated in 4H with one state 4H council member, one national leadership recipient. As a member of Farmers Union she saw her children grow and learn with 2 children on the Junior Advisory Council.

Janet also worked outside the home as a secretary and book keeper for many and continued to work until the time of her death. She was also known as the Watkins Lady having started as a distributor with the company in 1980 and excelling to the level of Bronze Manager. She thoroughly enjoyed working the trade shows over the years and especially enjoyed the Black Hills Stock Show where she could catch up with long-time friends and customers.

Janet was active until the end and was especially proud of her beautiful yard and flower gardens, which were the envy of many!

Janet held a special place in the hearts of many and is survived by her children, Karla, Russell (Brittany), Mark, Tim (Christi) Harwood. Grandchildren Charles, Angela(Kevin) and Isaac and step grandchildren Tammie, Anna and Christopher and several great grandchildren. Sister Faye (Larry) Volmer and brother Dale (Dorothy)Olson and ex husband Boyd Harwood. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Per her wishes there are to be no funeral services. Please do not send flowers, but if you would like to send a card it may be sent to :

Kinkade Funeral Chapel
1235 Junction Ave.
Sturgis, SD 57785