Harriet Jean Counes' Obituary
Harriet “Jean” Counes, age 86, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 15, 1939, in Battle Creek, Michigan. Jean is lovingly remembered by her sister, Virginia; her children, George and Christina; her son-in-law, George Karakey; and her future daughter-in-law, Kerri. She was a devoted grandmother to Kathleen, James, Nicholas, and George, and a proud great-grandmother to nine. Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, Jim, and her daughter-in-law, Wendy.
Jean was a devoted wife to her late husband, a cherished mother to her children, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her endless joy and laughter. Jean has been “Mom” to some and “Yia Yia” to many. Jean was a beacon of kindness and warmth to all who knew her. She dedicated her life to nurturing both her family and her community, leaving a legacy of compassion and generosity.
Known for her love of board and card games, Jean's playful personality truly shined through all that she did. Jean loved a trip to the casino and would never turn down a good green corn tamale from Leo’s. Jean and her family owned and operated the Northwoods Restaurant and Home Video Square. Jean returned to college in her late 50’s to accomplish a personal goal of obtaining her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Accounting.
After moving to Oregon in 2007, Jean was inspired to become involved in her new community and served on the board of the Santiam Senior Center (Stayton, OR). Jean truly enjoyed her time at the Center. She found rewarding new friendships and in true “Jean” fashion, stepped in to do whatever was needed to help the Center be a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for all those that frequented. Her gentle spirit and infectious smile will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
A graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Tucson, Arizona on September 26th, 2025, at 10:00 AM, where those who loved her can gather to celebrate her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Capital Building Fund at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (Tucson, AZ), a cause dear to Jean’s heart.
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