Alice Ann Cannon

Born Alice Anne Cunningham in Oklahoma City, Ann was not content to live like everyone else. To fit her whole story in a mere few lines is next to impossible; there are so many wonderful things she accomplished during her life. This space only serves to highlight a sliver of what a remarkable woman she truly was. Never a shrinking violet, Ann seized every exciting opportunity she could. As a high school senior, Ann learned to fly planes and soloed one as part of a school newspaper writing assignment. She met Dale Cannon at Oklahoma State University after he returned from WWII; they married in 1947 and had four children. When the University of Arizona assigned Dale to Brazil, she moved her entire family there for two years and thoroughly enjoyed the adventure. After they returned to the States, Ann had a tumultuous year, culminating in the death of her mother. Instead of crumbling, Ann threw herself into nursing school, acing her classes and, at the age of 47, she became a Registered Nurse. She worked first as a medical/surgical nurse, and then discovered rehabilitation nursing. Even after she retired, Ann’s adventures continued, with jaunts to Europe and Israel, and many years in the ASU Choral Union. However, Ann’s favorite place to be was at home, surrounded by her family and pampered dogs. Her humor, generosity and kindness touched everyone she met, and she will be sorely missed. Ann is warmly remembered by her two brothers, Jack and Tom; her children, Bruce, Larry, Beverly and Mark; her daughter-in-laws, Mary and Bryn; her son-in-law Shem; her grandchildren, Libby, Josh, Caleb, Rebecca, Rachel, Amy, Michael, Jessie and Jamie; and her great-grandchildren, Grant and Emily.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 22. A graveside service will follow at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers you can help preserve Ann’s memory by making a donation in her name to the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. Arrangements are being held under the direction of Resthaven Park Mortuary & Cemetery, www.resthavenpark.com, 4310 East Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042