Janis Marie Karrass left this earth on November 30, 2019, surrounded by her family and friends. An incredibly wise mother, scholar, Tante and friend, she will be forever loved and missed by her son as well as her family and friends around the world.
Jan’s passions ranged from theatre to psychology and she possessed an adventurous spirit. She was well respected and brilliantly smart with a wicked sense of humor. She was born in Austin, TX on December 21, 1965 to Sylvia June and Benjamin Franklin Karrass. She spent the first several years of her life living in England and Germany before settling in Austin, TX. Jan graduated from Southern Methodist University (BBA Psychology/Theatre), Pepperdine University (MBA/MIB) and Notre Dame University (PhD Psychology). After completing her education, she settled in Nashville, TN where she raised her son. Jan worked at Vanderbilt University for many years where she formed lifelong friendships. She relocated to Germany in the summer of 2017 when she took a teaching position at the University of Maryland University College. She returned to Austin, TX in June 2019. Despite her illness, she remained positive and enjoyed life.
Jan is predeceased by her parents and is survived by her son, Swing Hausen of Tacoma, Washington, sister Denise Kovar and husband Gary (nieces Allison and Olivia and nephew Zack) of Dripping Springs, TX, brother Franklin Dean Karrass and wife Sharon (niece Kerianne (Giancarlo) Motta and nephew Benjamin (Coral) Karrass ) and 3 great nieces and 2 great nephews of Meriden, CT. Her stepmother, Marsha Karrass, of Austin, TX as well as her special friend, Atticus Jenkins, of Nashville, TN also survive her. She is also survived by her dear friend, Bjoern Rump, of Frankfurt, Germany who lovingly cared for her throughout much of her illness.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the American Brain Tumor Association or the charity of your choice. The family will hold a private ceremony to celebrate Jan’s life. A celebration of Jan’s life in Nashville, TN is pending.
Condolences may be sent to: www.harrellfuneralhomes.com.
