Janet Vinson Freibergs passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Tampa, Florida, Jan spent her formative years on the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia, where her mother, Sophie, nurtured in her a lifelong appreciation for proper nutrition and holistic health.

A gifted student, Jan graduated as valedictorian of her high school class, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and curiosity. She went on to pursue her passion for spiritual understanding at Ambassador College, attending the Bricket Wood campus in England, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Theology. During her time there, she met Gunar Freibergs, whom she married in England. Together, they had two children, Tal and Karina, born four years apart. Though their marriage ended after more than a dozen years, Jan always maintained deep respect and warm regard for Gunar, embodying her belief in grace and understanding in all relationships.

Jan made her home in Pasadena, California, for many years before moving to Sierra Madre in 1998. Throughout her life in Southern California, she built a remarkable career in holistic health care. She worked as a chiropractic assistant and, in 1998, became certified in Shiatsu massage. As a member of the American Massage Therapy Association, she established her own private practice in 2000, eventually earning over a dozen certifications in massage and related holistic health fields. Jan’s dedication to her craft led her to study anatomy, reflexology, yoga, and numerous non-traditional forms of health care. She maintained her professional practice for many years, touching countless lives with her healing touch, wisdom, and compassion.

Jan’s intellectual curiosity was boundless. She was a lifelong student, delving into subjects such as quantum physics and becoming a member of the Institute of Noetic Sciences. She was always eager to integrate the latest scientific discoveries with her spiritual practice, seeking a deeper understanding of the world and her place in it.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jan found joy and self-expression in music and dance. For several years she played piano (also instructing for a few years). But, it was her passion for dance that brought her a higher level of happiness throughout her life. She truly lived her deeply held spiritual beliefs, treating everyone she met with kindness and compassion. Jan was guided by the teachings of Jesus, the Dalai Lama, and Father Gregory Boyle, and she studied and practiced non-violent communication.

A devoted environmental advocate, Jan cared deeply for the natural world. She was a long-time donor to the Sierra Club and PBS, and she especially enjoyed British television programs, which reminded her of her cherished years in England.

Jan faced profound loss with courage and grace. Her beloved daughter, Karina, preceded her in death after a courageous battle with cancer at age 44. Jan is survived by her son, Tal; her brothers, Kent and Roger; nephews, Brion and Bruce; and niece, Charlotte.

Jan’s life was characterized by service to others, spiritual devotion, and a genuine belief in the power of gratitude and kindness. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives she touched through her holistic health work and compassionate spirit.

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