Ann Brown

Ann Brown

1922-2014

With her five sons and the memory of her husband Dave with her, Ann took her last breath on March 2, surrounded by the love of her family, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Three days before, Ann announced to her family, friends, relatives and neighbors that she was on her way out, that she loved everyone and was ready to go.

Ann was a first generation American, as her parents immigrated through Ellis Island from Yugoslavia with three children in 1914. One of nine, Ann had six brothers and two sisters. Her love of San Francisco was immense, never wanting to live anywhere else; she was a proud native.

Ann grew up in Bernal Heights, went to St. Paul's High School and after a short courtship, married Dave at the age of 23 at St. Kevin's on Cortland Ave. Ann ran a strong household on one civil-servant's salary from SFFD. As an active member of her community, Ann was involved in Epiphany Grammar School and Catholic Church activities. For years Ann cared for a special needs family member, Patsy, and volunteered at Kaiser SSF, St. Anne's Little Sisters of the Poor, Laguna Honda, Jewish Home of SF, as well as with many other projects throughout the years.

Ann traveled the world, going to China, taking multiple trips to Europe, and visiting Russia, a trip which thrilled her. While her third son Steven was a missionary for seven years in Mugumu, East Africa, Ann visited him by traveling through the Serengeti, once with Paul, and again with Kevin in the 90's. The trips required a four-wheel drive truck, driven by Steven, to travel through mud and many large pits to make the two day journey from Nairobi, Kenya. Highlights from the adventure included overnight stays in hotels amongst wild animals, especially when the lions could be heard roaring at night.

Over the past 55 years, Ann and family have enjoyed their vacation home in Loch Lomond CA, known as In-Laws Haven. Due to Ann's Matriarchal foundation, those memories will live on for decades, not only with the Brown extended family, but all with the many relatives enjoying "The Cabin."

Ann leaves behind two brothers, Bill (Loraine) and Tom (Patricia), her five sons, David (Patricia), Richard, Steven, Paul (Anna) and Kevin (Alison), six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren and quite a few nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dave, her parents Rudolph and Christine, her sisters Rose and Kate, and brothers Steve, Rudy, Nick and Joe.

Ann chose to donate herself to the Willed Body Program of UCSF, similar to what her husband Dave also accomplished. So, family and friends are invited to a memorial to be held at Epiphany Catholic Church in SF on Thursday 3/6/14 at 11 a.m., with a Celebration of Life reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann's name will be accepted by Epiphany Church.

The family would like to thank all the loving help provided to Ann by Premier Home Care Services, May, Dell and JoJo, plus Hospice nurses Pat and crew.