Annie Janzen

Annie Janzen, beloved wife of Robert Janzen, mother to Justin and Kelsey and grandma to Harlow, passed away unexpectedly on September 10, 2025, at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta.

Ann Kiyomi was born on May 26, 1956, in Bassano, Alberta, to Yosh and Kay Maruno. She arrived two months early. She was tiny, but strong and she grew to have a beautiful spirit that left an indelible mark on all of us who loved her. Growing up, she had built-in friendships with her brother, Larry and her five sisters, which continued all their lives.

Annie and Robert were married in 1979. In him, she found the steady support and unwavering love she had dreamed of. She flourished as a wife and mother, pouring her heart and soul into her roles. Justin was born in 1980, and their family was complete with the arrival of Kelsey in 1984. She cherished becoming a grandma when Harlow was born in 2011.

Annie’s gifts included her impeccable fashion sense and an eye for decorating and design. She took great care and pride in making her home and garden a beautiful sanctuary for her family and she was a creative, hands-on mom. But her most amazing gift was her desire and effort to make real connections with those who meant the most to her. Her legacy will continue in the special memories she made, especially with all her nieces and nephews and their children. Her love for them knew no bounds.

Annie is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Robert, her loving son, Justin and his wife Hollie and her treasured granddaughter, Harlow. She is also survived by her siblings and their families; Lois (Ron) Maloney, Susan (Brian) Van Uden, Larry (Stella), Linda (Dave) McMillan, Janet (Larry) Lavallee and brother-in-law, Gerald Howlett. Also mourning her passing are Robert’s family; her mother-in-law Lena Janzen, Phyllis (Aaron) Petkau, Greg Janzen and numerous nieces and nephews, to whom she was their “sparkly auntie”.

The passing of her only daughter Kelsey, just over two years ago, devastated her. Through her sorrow, she faced her loss with courage and determination and did everything she could to support and care for her granddaughter. She was also predeceased by her parents, Yosh and Kay Maruno; her sister, Lorraine Howlett and nephew, Brandon Lavallee. She also deeply felt the loss of her father-in-law, Frank Janzen; her in-laws, Kathy (John) Sawka and Wanda (Wayne) Melnychuk. We feel that her reunion with Kelsey and everyone is a joyous one, even though we are broken hearted.

A private service has been held in her honour.

Heartfelt thanks to Brad Sawka of Eden's Coaldale Funeral Home for his care and compassion. Thanks also to the staff at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Foothills Medical Centre. We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Lun and the staff for their care of Annie in the stroke unit.