Anne Mare Klepp

Anne-Mare Ilves was born on April 13, 1942, in Estonia, to Karl and Gerda Ilves. Her early years were shaped by the turmoil of World War II. In 1944, as the Red Army advanced into Estonia, Anne-Mare and her parents were forced to flee their homeland in search of safety and freedom. The family lived as refugees in Germany for several years, facing uncertainty with determination and hope.

Their journey eventually brought them to the United States, where they were sponsored by J.C. Penney and settled in Penney Farms, Florida. There, the Ilves family began rebuilding their lives - learning English, finding work, and establishing stability in a new land. Through hard work, perseverance, and dedication, the family successfully adapted to American life and proudly became naturalized citizens of the United States.

In time, they relocated and made their home in Poughkeepsie, New York. Anne-Mare graduated from Poughkeepsie High School and went on to pursue her calling in healthcare. She attended Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, where she earned her nursing degree and became a registered nurse. Her career was marked by compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to caring for others.

In 2003, Anne-Marie relocated to Apex, North Carolina, with her daughter and son-in-law, where she remained close to her family. In 2004, she began working as a nurse at Central Prison in Raleigh, North Carolina, faithfully serving until her retirement in 2009.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Anne-Mare was known for openly sharing her love of Jesus Christ. Whether speaking with friends, family, or strangers she met in her daily life, she offered encouragement and hope through her words and actions. Her faith guided her life and was reflected in her kindness, generosity, and genuine care for others.

Anne-Mare is survived by her loving children, David Kaiser (Laura) of Tampa, Florida, and Kristina Quinn (Gary) of Apex, North Carolina; her cherished grandchildren, Maxwell and Jill Kaiser, and Kaitlyn and Travis Quinn. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who took great joy in her family.

Anne-Mare will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her strength through adversity, her deep faith, and the remarkable journey that carried her from Estonia to a life of purpose and love in the United States. Her life stands as a testament to perseverance, courage, and the blessings of building a new life through faith and determination.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service will be held on June 18th, 2026 Raleigh Church of Christ, 911 Barringer Dr, Raleigh, NC 27606 at 7:00 PM.

A graveside service will take place on June 19th, 2026 Wake Memorial Park, 7002 Green Hope School Rd, Cary, NC 27519 at 11:00 AM.