It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Annie (Anne) LeBlanc on January 23, 2025, at the age of 87. Anne passed away peacefully and surrounded by love in the comfort of her home at Hogarth Riverview Manor (Thunder Bay, ON) with her granddaughter by her side.
Born on March 31, 1937, and raised on a family farm in Souris, Manitoba, Anne embraced life with resilience, hard work, and an unwavering love for her family. Anne’s life was not without challenges, but she faced them with incredible strength and determination, leaving behind a footprint of perseverance and tenacity.
Anne later settled in Dryden, Ontario, where she built a life filled with warmth, dedication, and love. Anne worked as a custodian at Dryden High School, earning respect and admiration from her colleagues and students alike. Life in Dryden brought Anne joy and fulfillment. In her younger years, she loved visiting the beach, where the sunshine and waves seemed to mirror her vibrant spirit. She found happiness in gardening, cultivating vegetables with care, and spent countless hours canning her harvest to share with loved ones. Anne was a talented cook, known far and wide for her famous cabbage rolls, hearty borscht, delectable soups, and delicious multi-course family dinners that brought everyone together around the table.
Anne loved to travel, exploring new places and creating cherished memories along the way. She found joy in music, playing bingo, and occasional visits to the casino, where her lively spirit always shone. Anne also treasured the simple pleasures of life, such as catching up over the phone or lunch with friends that filled her days with meaningful conversation and laughter.
After a stroke in 2023, Anne decided it was time to consider moving into Long Term Care and relocated to Hogarth Riverview Manor in Thunder Bay. With the move, her vibrancy and sense of community revived, and she even started going by her given name of Annie!
Family was at the centre of Annie’s life. She shared a unique bond with each of her children and poured her love into her youngest grandchildren, Kieran and Makaah, who held a very special place in her heart. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Jane, Julie, and Judy, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as dear friends, Melda Bruyere and Theresa Shinkman. Annie will be cherished in memory by the staff and residents of Hogarth Riverview Manor. She is predeceased by her parents Henry & Anna Gorzen, many siblings, and her beloved daughter, Kathy — who we know would be waiting for her with love, understanding and open arms.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Hogarth Riverview Manor (3N) for the love, compassionate care, and support provided during Annie’s final year.
In keeping with Annie’s wishes, cremation has taken place; no service by request.
Annie’s legacy is one of resilience, adventure, and love—a life well-lived.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to St. Joseph’s Care Group (Hogarth Riverview Manor) or the Canadian Cancer Society.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Rest peacefully, Annie. You will forever remain in our hearts.
On-line Condolences may be sent to www.blakefuneralchapel.com
