Ann McManus

(Donated to Multiple Sclerosis Society)

(Donated to Multiple Sclerosis Society)

(Donated to Multiple Sclerosis Society)

We are left with sadness for ourselves but happiness for your wonderful. beautiful fun-loving spirit to be free. Your life was a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing you, enjoying your wit and wisdom. We have such great memories of your lovely family and the close ties that will forever keep you in our hearts.

This is from all the friends you have from the London Free Press. It has been a long time since you worked there, and a lot of things have changed. One thing that won't change is the smile that your humour and laughter brought to us. Happy sailing Ann- from Corine, Bonnie, Greg, Margo, Marg, Jeanne.

Ann's memory will forever be in my heart. I feel honored to know Ann and I would like to thank her for all the wisdom and life lessons she has given me. Also, I would like to thank her for her daughter Jen. I have very fond memories growing up and and spending time with Jen and her mom. When we were younger, I often considered Ann like a second mom (she had no problem scolding Jen and I, like my own mother). I remember Ann sitting at the kitchen table asking what us girls were up to, her smile always warm and welcoming. I remember going down to the McManus basement and Jen showing me photo albums of Ann and Ken when they were dating and thinking Ann was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen. As we grew older, Ann never stopped showing interest and care for those around her. I am forever grateful for all that Ann has given me. Ann is a beautiful example of patience and love. It gives me comfort knowing she is in a better place and I'm by her daughter's side as a dear friend.

My heart breaks for your entire family. I am honored to have known someone as strong as Ann, to show me what dignity truly is. I have many wonderful memories of the house on grandview, and the many times Ann drove Jen and us girls to various events. She always gave me true advise on life and its lessons. I know you are now at peace, and that gives me comfort. I promise to honor your memory and hug my best friend Jen, whenever she needs it. Love to all of you.. xoxoxox

Words cannot express how saddened I was to hear of your family's loss. "Mrs McManus", Ann, will forever be remembered for her incredible sense of humour, wit, beauty, and loving spirit in my heart. In my favourite memory, I can hear her voice "howl" as we kids cheered for joy after hearing our school's name on the radio for snow closures, : ) You are in my thoughts and prayers today and know that she is finally at peace and is always there with you.

Ken, you were Ann's angel on this earth. Your love and constant care for Ann, phyisically, emotionally and spiritually was evident in everything you did. One of my favourite memories from school was how you used to speak of your wife and children. You had a sparkle in your eye when you spoke of the three most cherished women in your life. I know you made Ann as happy as she made you. Many people only dream of what you and Ann had together and I know you will miss her. I hope you are somehow able to embrace all of the love and support that so many people want to share with you right now. You were Ann's angel on this earth. I love you.

Ann, I met you early in my MS battle where you helped show me just how to live life to the fullest while over coming some of the battles that rage within us. I will be forever grateful to have known you as the ever smiling, so well coiffed along with ever present lipstick lady. It is now time for you to rest!

Ann was and is such a beautiful spirit. I remember her playful nature and warm charm way back in my Oakridge days. I am so saddened by this news and send my love and deepest sympathies to your family.

Uncle Ken, cousin Jen and Lisa.. you are such a beautiful family and my heart goes out to you. Ann was such an amazing soul, (and still is.. somehwere out there) who blessed us all as an aunt, sister ,mother, wife, friend ..... she is an inspiration to me in terms of strenth, courage and she was always full of smiles and humour. Your family is so strong and so loving.. I am grateful for having your family in my life, and I thank you so much for allowing me to be with you at the end of her physical life. She will always be with us in spirit. I love you all very much.. aunt ann I will miss you. Please give my love to grandma, grandpa, Cameron and the other beings of light.. kristen

Dear Connie and family, I have just returned from the north this eve. to read about Ann`s death. She was such a strong person and so brave,all these years. The time spent in London during our three month s of Psychiatric training were wonderful thanks to your family.Ann stands out as one of your siblings with whom we shared many a laugh and countless stories. Our prayers are with you all. Karen and Dale.

Dear Connie so sorry for your loss you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Connie and family, We have always heard so many fine things about Anne and her family from Connie and know the love that was showered on her. Now she can intercede for all of you as she rests in the arms of our dear Lord who is full of love and mercy. Connie, our hearts and prayers are with you, all of your family there and for Anne to rest in peace. Sandra and John Van Raay

My sweet Ann......you are now free to take a deep breath....stretch out your arms and run through fields .....my sister...my friend...you were always the best example of what strength was all about in facing the struggles that you endured over the years.There will be many days ahead filled with tears and laughter in memory of you.That peaceful beautiful smile of yours.......you never complained .As in life surrounded by your loving friends and family,we are with you still ......"Be not afraid" .....fly with the angels......I love you Annie Bananie.....See ya......Jayne

Dear Connie: Want you to know that we are thinking of you and saying a prayer for your intentions. We said a prayer for Ann at our Rosary this morning and you know that she is at peace. Love, Leo and Joan

Dear Connie: Want you to know that we are thinking of you and saying a prayer for your intentionbs. We said a prayer for Ann at our Rosary thsisoprning and you knhow that she is at peace. Love, Leo and Joan

Ken and Family: Rest assured that Ann is no longer suffering from the devastating effect of this horrible disease. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at this time of your loss. I'm sure she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

My sweet and funny Aunt Ann. You taught all those who knew you the meaning of the word strength. Such an example you were. Your physical strength may have waned but your spirit and inner strength shone brightly for all to see. As you continue on your journey walk with your head held high knowing what an impact you had on this world. We’ll all miss you. Love Karen, Scott, Ashton & Bevan xo

Your mother was so proud of her girls and all of their accomplishments. You each always cared for your mother with special devotion and passion. Your support for your father was constant. He was freed up for occasional golf days and bike rides. Kennedy and Joseph brought young love to the household. Merc is always so glad when you’re there. Thanks Jen and Lisa...I love you both.

My dear Ann: I was the “big sister”… but you the wiser one. I have deep sadness …but I take comfort knowing that you have been set free. For years I had the honour to spend my string of days off with you and Ken in Byron. You taught me much about courage and how to handle this M/S battle. My last words to you: “will you be my special angel…the one with the crooked smile?” You smiled your goodbye... “Be not afraid, I go before you always. Come follow me and I will give you rest.” Love ya Con

My dear Ann, It seems like yesterday that i sat in the kitchen with my mother to visit your mom, as a only child it never ceased to amaze me how such a large family managed to be so close while that answer is : LOVE: and you carried this through your hole life. You were strong Ann and now it is time to rest. God Speed, Mike (Pirrie) Peters

Jen, what you wrote is so beautiful. I didn't know your mom all that well but knew her well enough to know she was a very lovely lady - inside and out. Things happen that don't always make sense and don't seem fair and this is one of them. Take comfort in knowing that you will see her again.

Mom, i hope you knew what you did for my life. You made me the woman I am today. You taught me how to laugh and how to love, how to overcome life's challenges with grace and how to be a devoted mother and wife. You brought a lot of light to my life and I am overwhelmed with the wonderful memories that I will have for always. I feel so blessed that I could be with you as you ended your journey here with us. You will never be forgotten. I love you so much.

Jen I am so sorry and sad to hear of the passing of your mom. I hope all the happy and loving memories of her will get your through these difficult and sad times.

Dear Connie, I just received the news about Ann's passing, and I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and Ann's family. God Bless you all in this time of deep sadness, Sharon Roebuck (Nursing Class of 1965, St. Joseph's Hospital, Chatham, Ontario.)

Hi Jayne I saw Ann's notice in today's paper, & just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for you loss. I remeber Ann from the Mount & the time I spent at your home on Queen's Ave. I will keep Ann & your family in my thoughts & prayers. You have another angel in heaven watching over you. Debbie Lachine

Thank you for the lessons. We all enjoyed life together. Ann was young and strong and later less strong. A wife and mother teaching serenity. We came together to say goodbye. She had finished her work. And then she was gone. Only gone from us, not gone away. Many others assembled to watch her arrival, to welcome her home, to deeply rejoice in a life well done. She and they will gather together to await our arrival…

My little Ann...such a gentle soul who taught us all what the words courage and selflessness mean. I am honoured and blessed to have been your sister. You will always be in my heart. Love, Angela.