Ann Marie Tollefson

FENNIMORE - Ann Marie Tollefson, age 74, passed away on Friday September 13, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on September 8, 1950, the beloved daughter of Lincoln and Phebe (Streeter) Tollefson.

Ann grew up on the family farm in Castle Rock Township near Fennimore, where she was the second oldest of seven siblings. She led a life of true determination and grit after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of 12, which left her with severe physical and mental deficits, but her smile and love of family was infectious and will always be treasured. Memories of Ann will forever be etched in each and every heart of her loving siblings and adored nieces and nephews.

Ann was a confirmed member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Fennimore. She had an unwavering faith, no matter her challenges she always looked to brighter days in heaven when she would be reunited with Mom and Dad, friends, and family. There’s no doubt the gates were wide open for her arrival, and she shouted her ultimate exclamation of approval of “that’s neat!”

Ann’s home for the past 12 years was at Dove Nursing Home in Fennimore. She loved to do crafts. Each year, until her eyesight gave out, she gifted sequined calendars to family and loved ones for Christmas. Able to use just one arm/hand, Ann worked tirelessly all year on this special gift. Each stitch came with a bead and sequin and more love and effort than can be explained.

Being a true Norwegian, Ann loved lefse, lutefisk, and krub. Diet Coke was her drink of choice each and every day… several times a day!

To say a hole is now in our hearts would be an understatement - Ann did not have a mean bone in her body. With all that she endured she could always smile - a lesson we can all learn from.

Ann will be dearly missed by her six siblings: Steve of Fennimore, Martin (Ruth) of Fennimore, James (Rhonda) of Fennimore, Kristie (Paul) Dean of Potosi, Cindy (Dennis) Cordts of Fennimore, and Jody (Lowell) Witte-Davis of Verona; her beloved nieces and nephews: Jade Tollefson, Matt Tollefson, Mitch (Natalie) Tollefson, David (Dawn) Tollefson, Mandy Tollefson, Kelly (Shannon) Tollefson, Boone (Michelle) Tollefson, Katie Tollefson, Tyler (Betsy) Tollefson, Wille (Jody) Dean, Casey (Lindsey) Dean, Bobbie (Jason) Rogers, TJ Monroe, Dusty (Amanda) Witte; and 20 great nieces/nephews. Ann was preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister, Marsha; her brother-in-law, Pete Witte; and nephew, Jesse Cordts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials which will be donated by the family, in honor of Ann, to Dove Healthcare in Fennimore. They will go towards their purchase of a van for residents to enjoy outings in.

We would like to thank the staff at Dove Healthcare for loving and caring for Ann over the past 12 years. Thank you also to Agrace Hospice for your compassion and guidance.