Ann Sigrid Julian

She was born May 20, 1935 in Haverhill, Massachusetts to Gustaf and Mary Kalijarvi, who preceded her in death, as did her brother, Gus Kalijarvi.

Ann grew up in the Mid-West and along the East Coast. She attended high school in Connecticut and New Jersey, before studying at Barnard College in New York.

Having met her husband on a blind date, Ann was married August 25, 1956 to Dr. Robert Julian in Vermont at the age of 21. She was a dedicated mother to their four children, teaching them to be independent, the value of a good education and to fight for what they think is right. As a Navy wife for 12 years, Ann lived in Virginia, Japan and Florida before moving to Fresno in 1971. While in Japan she learned the art of Ikebana flower arranging and became a certified Red Cross swimming instructor. She later taught swimming at Washington Union School District.

Ann completed her education at California State University, Fresno with a Master of Social Work. Her life was dedicated to helping the vulnerable, especially children. She served as the Director of Volunteers at Valley Children's Hospital and she founded the Suicide Prevention Center, which operated a hotline for those in crisis. She served on the Fresno Grand Jury and was active in environmental issues.

Ann enjoyed spending time near the ocean and was an avid Raider fan, holding season tickets for 12 years. She also loved music and frequently attended the San Francisco Symphony.

Ann is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert Julian; 4 children and their spouses, Karen and Brian Arax, Drs. Robert and Nooshin Julian, Dr. Chris and Julie Julian of Fresno, Jenny and Tom Gibson of Sacramento and 8 grandchildren.

There will be a private memorial service for immediate family. To honor Ann's life and her work, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of choice.