Ann Frances Lietz died peacefully on May 3, 2021, near to the family and caregivers who loved her dearly. She went peacefully into the Lord’s embrace, aided by her loving family and caregivers at Sunrise Senior Living in Boulder, Colorado, who cared for her with love and compassion in her last days.
Ann was born on October 20, 1933 in Marcus, Iowa, to Marilyn and Lawrence Swanson. She and her older brother Robert grew up in a loving, large extended family in the farming communities of northwest Iowa. After graduation from Marcus High School, Ann left the farm to attend Iowa State University and graduated with a degree in Home Economics. With her teaching certificate in hand, she began her first teaching job in Estherville, Iowa, where she met the love of her life, Darrell Lietz, who was teaching English and coaching at the same school. As Darrell recalls, he was smitten the first time he saw Ann, by her beauty, her grace, and her gentle charm. They were married for nearly 64 years.
Together, Ann and Darrell moved to new teaching positions in Davenport, Iowa, where Darrell taught English, coached junior high sports, and scrambled to make ends meet. Ann taught Home Economics and they established a home just big enough for the baby girl who would soon follow. As was the practice in those days, Ann had to stop teaching once her pregnancy was known, and she devoted herself to raising her daughter, Pamela Rene, and then their son, Christopher Scott. Soon the family moved to a larger house where Ann made a beautiful and loving home for her family using her considerable homemaking skills. Darrell equipped Ann with a sewing room in the basement, and for many years she sewed clothing for herself and Pamela. Every garment was crafted to perfection. Ann was an especially talented baker, known for impossibly flaky pie crust with perfectly crimped edges, and a continuous supply of homemade cookies that could always be found in Tupperware above the refrigerator.
Ann is survived by her brother, Robert Swanson of Naperville, Illinois. She leaves behind her loving husband, Darrell Albert Lietz, originally from Maquoketa, Iowa and now residing in Boulder, as well as daughter Pamela Rene Berneking (David) of Lampe, MO, son Christopher Scott Lietz (Marlys) of Boulder, CO, grandchildren Ettie Berneking (Ryan Kelly), Ethan Berneking (Ashley), Emma Lietz Bilecky (Tyler), Calvin Lietz and Clara Lietz.
The family is grateful for the love and care of so many people who have lifted Ann up in her journey with Alzheimer's, supported Darrell, and encouraged all of us.
Memorials can be made to the Ridgecrest Foundation, 4130 Northwest Blvd, Davenport, IA 52806 or to the Alzheimer's Association.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5