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Ann Thomas (MacDonald, nee Brunner)

January 27, 2021

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March 24, 1927 - January 27, 2021
Ann came into this world in Hanna Alberta on March 24th, 1927. She was the second child of Stephen and Katherine Brunner. There were 6 children in the Brunner family: Cecile, Ann, William, Donald, Clare and Adeline.
During the Depression the Brunner family left Alberta and moved west to British Columbia where they made Chilliwack their home, eventually moving to Haney where Ann's parents opened the Brunner Bakery.
In her teenage years Ann worked for Boeing with her sister Cecile, helping with the WWII effort.
Ann married her first husband Ralph MacDonald in 1944. They had 5 children: Barbara, Grace, William, Allan and Jean. After her husband died unexpectedly, she married her 2nd husband Walter Thomas in 1955. Together they had 3 children: Charles, Katherine and Theresa. She was widowed a second time in 1962.
While raising her family, Ann worked at Maple Ridge Hospital until she retired.
At the age of 70, Ann made a brave decision. She and her son Allan moved to Powell River where they started a new life. There, Ann continued to volunteer with charities, in particular with the BC Schizophrenia Society.
In her life Ann travelled to Hawaii, Europe, England and Alaska and made frequent trips to California to visit family. She also travelled to the Brunner family homestead in Hanna Alberta keeping in touch with extended relatives, memories she cherished.
Ann enjoyed music. She could harmonize with any singer on the radio and played the harmonica with flair. She also appreciated art and nature, gifts she passed on to her children. She was an avid reader.
Ann had 6 beautiful grandchildren: Kristen, Sean, Michael, Ryan, Amanda and Jennifer. And 3 great grandchildren: Ella, Cole and Jaxon.
In passing Ann leaves her children Barbara, Grace, Allan, Jean and Katherine, son Allan, her son-in-law Jim Mutas, and the beloved Brunner clan: sisters Clare and Adeline, brother-in-law Harold, sisters-in-law Mary and Betty and numerous nieces and nephews.
Our warmest thanks to Dr. Andreas and the staff at Willingdon Creek Village for their excellent care.
A Catholic mass was offered for Ann and family by her nephew Reverend Fabian MacDonald. We remember all those who have passed before us with understanding, humor and love.
A celebration-of-life will be held in Maple Ridge at a later date.
Rest in peace Ann, our mother and friend.


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