The youngest of 5, Annie was born shortly after her family immigrated from Russia. The family settled in Coaldale, Alta., where Annie attended elementary school. In the early 1940s, they moved to Yarrow, B.C., where Annie was one of the first graduates of Sharon Mennonite Collegiate. Always a caregiver at heart, Annie chose a profession that gave her the opportunity to serve others. She received an RN degree with a diploma in psychiatric nursing from St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, in 1953. Her career took her across Western Canada and to the Children’s Relief Hospital in Seoul, South Korea. She cared for orphaned and abandoned children, taught healthcare, and supervised orphanages. After retiring, Annie became her family’s principal caregiver. Her parents died in the comfort of their own home thanks to her nursing care. She also supported and cared for her brothers-in-law, nephew, sisters, and brother. Annie’s final years were spent in close relationship with her brother Dave, which whom she spent many hours playing pool. She also developed a close friendship with Louise Rempel, sharing camaraderie, support, and spiritual understanding. Annie’s spiritual life was important to her and her strong faith was reflected in everything she did. She offered help and comfort wherever she saw a need, and her family and friends were always in her prayers.
