Ann Pauline Smolenski
Published 5:00 am Friday, September 21, 2012
Follansbee
Nov. 23, 1917 – Sept. 19, 2012
A woman beloved by all who knew her, Ann lived 94 remarkable years.
At the urging of her mother, she arrived in the United States from Austria in 1933, just months before Hitler marched into her country. She became a US citizen in 1938, and in 1946, married her husband, Don, who preceded her in death. Theirs was a storybook life filled with hard work, achievement, and a love of outdoor sports.
Ann and Don moved to Sunriver from Lake Tahoe in 1972, and became active in their new community. She was on the first board of directors and was a signer of the Articles of Incorporation in 1973. In 1995, Ann was recognized for 22 years of volunteer service in Sunriver. Under her stewardship as chairperson of the environmental committee, recycling was increased by 303%.
Ann was a wonderful athlete. At age 55, she won the NASTAR competition for downhill skiing in the 40 and over category and then went on to place 5th nationally. She was a member of the Over the Hill Gang at Mount Bachelor and skied into her 80s. She also won many tennis tournaments in Sunriver. Ann and her husband spent many hours trail riding on their Arabian horses until they moved to Whispering Winds to enjoy the final chapter of their life.
A celebration of Ann’s life will be held at Whispering Winds Retirement Center, 2920 N.E. Conners Ave., Bend, on September 26, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Center, 2075 NE Wyatt Court, Bend, OR 97701.