Ann Bender

“On the tail of a whale,” Ann Bender, our beloved friend and devoted wife and mother, peacefully departed this earth April 29 surrounded by family and the music she loved.

Ann’s courageous battle with her disease and the grace and dignity with which she fought was truly an inspiration to all that had the privilege to take the journey with her.

Ann was born in Berkeley, Calif., Sept, 26, 1933 and graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a physical therapy degree.

A true lover of nature and the beautiful San Juan Islands, Ann was always happiest outdoors whether in her garden, hiking with friends, on the tennis court or just exploring South Beach with Bob, her husband of 50 years.

Ann was also a tireless volunteer and could be found anywhere, from caring for the animals at Wolf Hollow to the box office of the San Juan Community Theatre.

Ann was preceded in death by her son, Kirk.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; son, Joel, and wife, Nancy, of Hamilton, Mont.; daughter, Stacey, and husband, Justin Hall, of New Hampshire; four grandchildren, Ty, Nate, Jamie and Kelli; and three great-grandchildren, Ashley, Mia and A.J.

She is also survived by a brother, Warren, and wife, Laurie Halsey, of Monroe, Ore.; and her beloved border collie, Jack, who will miss their afternoon walks in the fields around Mitchell Bay.

Ann will be remembered fondly and missed deeply. Remembrances can be sent to Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center,m P.O. Box 391, Friday Harbor 98250; or San Juan EMT Association, P.O. Box 1243, Friday Harbor 98250.

A celebration of Ann’s life will be announced at a later date.

— Ann Bender family