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Ann Howes Obituary
Ann (Antje) Howes (née Hop) was born to the most hardworking and dedicated parents (Jake and May Hop) on the 27th of July, 1945 in Groningen, Netherlands.
With determined parents that infused a thirst for adventure, imbibed a hard work ethic and strong character, Ann travelled to Canada when she was 6 to start her new life as a soon to be Canadian citizen. Horse riding was a passion and a way of life, something that always was held dear while growing up on a farm. Known as the Big Sister, Ann exuded a refinement that was at first admired by her two sisters, Ingrid and Linda, and later deeply appreciated for her role modelling of wisdom and deep caring for her family. A thirst for reading, Ann was never satisfied with the status quo, forever questioning, always wondering, constantly reading. While working as a nanny, it was Don and Shan Cross that encouraged her to pursue a university education. Her chosen profession of educator was apparent in everything she chose to do most notably her work at Van Horne High School. Through determination and a grit like no other, she wove her way effortlessly into the hearts of many – twirling and dancing her way directly into the love of her life, Dale Howes. The two wed on 28 July 1967. Their son Tony (James Anthony) was born 5 years later, on November 26, 1972, and shortly thereafter they moved to Medicine Hat. As children so often do, Tony challenged his parents and notably his mom to face her fears – water – and worked his mom into the executive position of his chosen sport – the Alberta White Water Kayaking Association. Never one to give up an opportunity to move to music, Ann and Dale, never met a dance floor they didn’t light up.
Ann’s warm and encouraging nature made her the neighbourhood’s favourite surrogate parent. This only grew when she and Dale moved to Okotoks where she relished the role of community grandparent where she was known as Miss Ann to any number of young children and their adoring families.
Though any one snapshot in time throughout her life had her in a starring role, one spotlight in particular saw her shine. Her captivating portrayal as Oma and Dale’s supporting role as Opa was quintessentially Ann. Her grandbabies, Talia and Avaia were her number one fans, idolising her caring nature, perseverance, and giggling charm to anything they might get up to. Saturdays were pancake breakfasts and coloured whipped cream, Dora the explorer stories, creative art collectives in the basement and endless, endless patience to their own personal life queries and questions. In a word – magical.
Ann was without a doubt a light of feisty, caring, determined, and above all else compassionate, woman who left an indelible mark of wonder on everything and everyone she touched.
Ann will be lovingly remembered by Dale, her husband and best friend of 62 years: son Tony and his wife Karin: grandchildren Talia and Avaia: sister Linda: brother-in-law Mike: nieces Mandy, Sarah: nephews Danny, Kris: great-niece Rochelle, Victoria, Harper, London: great-nephews Lochlan, Joshua: and by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Ann was predeceased by her parents Jake and May Hop, her sister Ingrid and brother-in-law Reg.
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July 27 1945
August 30 2024
Death notice for the town of: Okotoks, Province: Alberta
death notice Ann Howes July 27 1945
August 30 2024
obituaries notice Ann Howes July 27 1945
August 30 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ann Howes July 27 1945
August 30 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.