Ann Mariah Schaefer

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ann Schaefer (Vanderpool), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and friend, who left us far too soon. Ann was the heart and soul of her family, a loving matriarch who will be remembered for her unwavering devotion and boundless love. Ann was born at Doc Springer’s in Randle, Washington, on June 27, 1969, to her loving parents, George and Linda Vanderpool. She graduated from White Pass High School in 1987 as class valedictorian. Although she undoubtedly deserved this accolade, getting in front of a crowd was a major stress for her. She did not like being the center of attention and hated having her picture taken. She said after graduation, “I still can’t believe I made it through that stupid speech!” Ann and John met in 1991 and were married in 1993. They weren’t just husband and wife, but also the best of friends. They were lucky enough to spend almost 32 years together. Ann and John had two boys, Bob and Rick. Her love for her boys was a force beyond words, and that love will echo in their hearts for the rest of their lives. Ann had a gift for bringing people together. She held an annual summer kickoff party which celebrated her birthday and the start of summer. She also loved hosting family gatherings, especially at Christmas, where her thoughtful gifts, tasty treats and joyful spirit lit up every room. Whether bowling, boating or enjoying the beach, she was rarely seen without a Diet Coke in her hand. Ann found happiness in the simplest moments spent with her loved ones — and shoes. She loved shoes. After college, Ann worked at the coal mine. She later ran her own in-home day care. She took care of many children, including her own nieces and nephews. She spent 15 years working at the PUD. Her coworkers relied on her as the “go-to person”; her extensive knowledge made her a valuable asset and made the workplace better for everyone. Ann is survived by her loving husband, John; her sons, Bobby (Kaylee) and Ricky; Drake, first-born grandson — her partner in crime who could do no wrong in her eyes; her three younger, cherished grandchildren, Trey, Bannon and Mila; her devoted father, George H.; her brother, George P. (Amber); and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Her presence in their lives was a blessing, and her absence leaves an unfillable void. Ann was preceded in death by her mother, Linda, whom Ann missed deeply. Ann possessed a soul of rarest kindness, a quiet light that warmed every heart it touched. She asked nothing in return but the joy of giving. Though she is gone from our sight, the kindness she gave will live on in every life she touched. Services will be held May 10, 2025, at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Winlock, Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation: https://www.kidney.org 

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