Ann Linn

Ann Linn, 96, of Sheffield, Iowa, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2016, at the Sheffield Care Center in Sheffield, Iowa. Anna Mae Thorson was born in Radcliffe, Iowa, daughter of Edith and Arthur Thorson on Flag Day, June 14, 1919. She was the fifth of ten children. Ann graduated from Radcliffe high school. After high school she worked briefly at the Radcliffe newspaper. Ann married Dr. Frank John Linn on December 31, 1939 at the United Methodist Episcopal Church in Radcliffe. They made their home in Sheffield where Frank set up his veterinary practice. Ann helped Frank in the office in the early years. In addition to being a wonderful mother, Ann was involved in various community organizations. She was a longtime member of P.E.O., Eastern Star, the United Methodist Church, Sheffield library Foundation, the B-Square Study Club, the Iowa Veterinary Auxiliary, and the National Veterinary Auxiliary. She enjoyed getting together with friends to play bridge. Ann was proud to be an election judge for several years, because she felt it was very important to be involved in one's government. She felt it was very important to support the community. Being an excellent cook, she contributed countless yummy baked goods to various bake sales and fund-raisers. She also spoiled her family with her kitchen talents. Saturdays with warm cinnamon rolls are such fond memories. Ann was very creative. She was an accomplished seamstress and could make anything from a lined mohair coat to reupholstering a chair. She and Frank spent many hours refinishing antique furniture. Ann was the ever-gentle one who would comfort a tot who happened to become afraid of Frank's "exciting" (and scary!) Hallowe'en antics. She loved children best of all, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Although Ann struggled with increased hearing loss over the years, she always had a friendly smile for people. She loved the community and all her dear friends. We want to thank the Sheffield Care Center staff for their kindnesses to Ann in her final days. Ann is survived by her three children; Annette Linn, James (Mary) Linn, Iowa City, IA, and Rebecca (Galen) Stahle, Deephaven, MN. 4 grandchildren: Katherine (Jeffrey) Brandel, Rebecca (Mark) Passavant; Galen James "Jamie" (Katie) Stahle, and Langdon (Kimberly) Stahle. 6 great grandchildren; Elizabeth Zoe & Sean Leonard Brandel; Tucker Butte and Porter Frederick Stahle; Violet Rose and Cole Mckendrie Stahle. Two sisters, June Selig and Bette (Paul) Mertens, and numerous nieces and nephews whom she has greatly enjoyed over the years. Ann is preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, sisters Bonnie, Ardyce, Ruby, Thelma, Leota, and brothers Raymond and Richard.

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Ann Linn

June 14, 1919 - January 17, 2016