It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Anne Advent (Zarebeski), at the age of 99, on February 2, 2025. Anne was born on August 2, 1925 in Fort Frances, Ontario. Anne passed away peacefully at Atikokan Extended Care, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and caring.
Anne and her husband Ray with their 3 children moved to Atikokan from North Branch, Ontario in 1953.
Anne's passions were caring for her family, gardening, baking, cooking, reading, sewing, crocheting and berry picking, especially blueberries. Her zest for life and her love for her family were the cornerstones upon which she and Ray built a lifetime of memories.
Anne was known for her warm smile and dedication to service. She initially worked at a local bakery, where her baking skills and cheerful manner resulted in lifelong friendships. Later she joined the team at the Kresge Store until her retirement, where her kindness made her a favourite among customers and colleagues alike.
Anne's home was always a place of laughter, love, and great food. Her door was always open to friends and family. The irresistible aroma of her famous baked goods, homemade bread, blueberry buns, butter tarts and pies was always present in Anne's kitchen. Her hospitality will be missed.
Anne's kindness extended beyond her family. She was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbours, and strangers alike. Her generous spirit was evident in everything she did, from the way she lovingly tended her garden, to the care she put into every meal she prepared. As a lifelong member of the Catholic Women's League and St Patricks' Catholic Church, Anne spent long hours helping to make her specialties, cabbage rolls and perogies. Anne would often spend time at the Extended Care facility providing comfort to those in need. She believed in the power of helping others and lived her life as a testament to that belief.
She navigated the challenges of life with grace and resilience, always guided by her deep love for her family and her belief in the goodness of people. However, Anne's role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that truly defined her.
Anne is survived by her children, Elaine (Wayne), Ron, Murray (Beatrix), Cindy (Gary), her grandchildren, Trevor (Cortina), Maree (Darrin), Jennifer, Jeffery (Pla), Catherine (Bradley), David (Amanda), Michele (Aaron), Byron (Lauren), Erin (Eric), Laura (Michael), and her great grandchildren, Berlin, Taylor, Max, Manhatten, Daniel, James, Bryce, Cala, Addison, Kennedy, Lily, Tessa, Elin, Max, Maeve, Vera. Her family brought her immense joy and pride.
Anne was predeceased by her parents, Nicholas and Marie Zarebeski, husband Ray Advent, son Dennis, daughter Lorraine, sons-in-law Neilson and Grayden, and daughter-in-law Jacqueline.
As we say goodbye to our Mom, Grandma and GG, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with purpose and love.
The family would like to thank Dr. Spencer of Atikokan General Hospital and special thanks to the entire staff of the Atikokan Extended Care Wing who cared for her with such care and compassion.
To honour and celebrate Anne's life, a mass and celebration of life will be on Friday, July 4, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church in Atikokan with interment at the Atikokan Cemetery. A luncheon for friends and family will follow.
In memory of Anne, if so desired, donations made to the Atikokan Extended Care Wing.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
