It is with profound sadness and a broken heart that I announce the passing of my beloved daughter, Ann Winegardner on July 20, 2026 at the age of 40 years. .

After a long and courageous battle with lymphoedema and a brief but determined fight with lymphoma, Ann passed away peacefully, finally free from pain and at rest.

From the moment Ann came into this world, she filled our lives with love, laughter, and pride. She possessed a heart that was larger than life, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her kindness, compassion, strength, and generous spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. No matter the challenges she faced, Ann met them with courage, grace, and determination.

Ann was a dedicated and cherished long-time employee of the Royal Canadian Legion, Red Deer Branch #35. Through her years of service, she became much more than a colleague. She was a familiar face, a trusted friend, and a compassionate presence to countless Veterans, members, volunteers, and visitors. Her kindness, unwavering dedication, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had also been looking after the Branch membership since 2007.

For the past 10 years, Ann proudly managed the Branch’s social media and Facebook page, helping connect the Branch with its members and the community. She also served as the editor of the Legion News for the past 10 years. A lifelong learner, Ann embraced new technology, welcomed new challenges, and was always searching for better ways to serve the Branch and the people she cared so deeply about.

Ann believed wholeheartedly in honouring Canada’s Veterans and serving her community. Whether she was assisting a Veteran, supporting a fundraiser, creating handmade cards for seniors and Veterans, donating gift baskets, or simply offering a listening ear, she gave of herself without hesitation. Helping others was never an obligation to Ann; it was simply who she was.

As your mother, there are no words to express the depth of the love I have for you or the emptiness your passing has left in my heart. You were my daughter, my pride, my joy, and my greatest blessing. I will miss your smile, your laughter, your caring heart, and the countless moments we shared together. Though my heart is broken, I find comfort in knowing you are finally at peace, free from pain and suffering.

Ann leaves behind her mother Debi, grandmother Linda, her close family Richard, Ralph Jr., Teresa & Rod, Roger, Patti, and many close relatives and friends from around the world.

Ann’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, the Legion community, and the many lives she touched through her kindness and unwavering generosity.

Rest peacefully, my beautiful daughter. You will be loved forever, missed every day, and never forgotten. Until we meet again, you will always remain in my heart.

In following with Ann’s wishes, no funeral will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to the Red Deer Legion (Branch 35), 2810 – Bremner Ave, Red Deer AB  T4R 1M9.

Condolences to Ann’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Ann Winegardner” in the subject line.

 Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944

• Date : 202607-02-04
• Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"