Jan Morgan Harmonson, 81, of Ojai, CA passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on August 14, 2022. Jan was
born in Ventura to Earl and Ida Harmonson on February 21, 1941.
He attended high school at Ventura High. In 1979 he purchased the Nicola and Clara Peirano House, a beautiful Victorian home originally built in 1897 on the corner of Figueroa St. and E. Santa Clara St. in downtown Ventura. He would spend the following 2 years restoring the building to all its original beauty. No detail was spared in the process making certain to match each sculptural exterior component and preserve the original design. The attention to detail flowed into the interior where Harmonson said “Aside from the electric lights and telephones, it will be just like stepping into a time machine.” The Queen Anne cottage became offices for Harmonson Tax and Financial Services, a family business. He often commented on how sad he was to see so many Victorian buildings being torn down in downtown Ventura and hoped that the Peirano House could set an example. The house was subsequently designated as a Historical Landmark. Then in 1982 he purchased “The Pink House,” a 1920’s mansion
perched upon a cliff on Sulphur Mountain Road overlooking the Rancho Arnaz apple orchard in Ojai. With his investors he renovated the home and property adding fountains, a pergola, outdoor spa, wine cellar, and stunning gardens. In 1984 he and his wife Patti opened the “Roseholm,” a unique cross between an elegant European auberge and a family-run bed & breakfast. The hotel was instantly popular, lauded by Elmer Dills in the Los Angeles Times and featured on Robin Leach’s “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” who became a repeat guest. A dedicated connoisseur of fine wines, music, and American fiction, Jan later pursued his passion for classic cars including the purchase and complete restoration of a prized 1952 Plymouth Suburban station wagon.
Jan is survived by his wife, Patti, son Noel, daughters Lisa and Kimberley, and grandson Arthur, 3 years old.
No funeral services are planned at this time, per Jan’s wishes. Condolences may be sent to [email protected].