We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Ann Hetram who unexpectedly passed away at TGH at the age of 63. It has left a deep void in the lives of her family and friends. All who knew Ann appreciated her exceptional intelligence and kindness and will miss her quick wit. Ann is dearly missed by her beloved husband of 32 years, Ed Rempel, as well as her family.

Ann was born in Georgetown, Guyana on November 18, 1961 to Muni and Eleanor Hetram. Her sister, Kamini, born 16 months later, was followed in 3 years by her brother Vinny. The family emigrated to Toronto in 1967 and the children grew up in the Etobicoke area. In 1984, Ann received her BSc in math and computer science from Queen's University.

Ann began her working life as a junior office administrator but quickly moved to more responsible positions. Her natural ability to “connect” with people was enhanced by her taking a Dale Carnegie course and eventually becoming their top instructor in Ontario. It was at this program she met Ed Rempel.

Ann married Ed on August 8, 1992 in what would remain their forever home in Brampton. She took great pleasure in landscaping the yards, including a pond. Ann loved flowers and she created the garden beds and deck to bloom continually through the summer. This was just one area where her creativity was expressed. Ann loved crafting – all kinds. Beading, paper flower making, embroidery, quilting. She took at least 100 craft courses at the "Needlework and Craft Show” which she attended every year for decades. She was also an avid cake decorator and a director of the Canadian Society of Sugar Artists.

Ann loved her family – especially her nieces and nephews. Spending time annually in Winnipeg with Ed's family brought Dana (Steve), Shannelle and Cassidy into her life. In Ontario, she was able to spend more time with Mark (Lisa) as he grew up.
On the Hetram side, as Vinny and Isabel started their family, Ann's weekly visits created a solid bond with Lex, Remy and Brynne. Along with Kamini and Walter, several Disney trips with everyone together maintained these close family ties.
Ann also made sure to take her mother to the Exhibition every year – it was their “thing”. Ann knew many of the vendors by name, reminding them she had been coming to the Ex every year for the last 50 years.

Ann and Ed were business partners for most of their marriage. Their financial planning business owed much of its success to Ann's exceptional people skills and organizational abilities. Her concern and care for individuals was remarkable and resulted in many long-term friendships. She was always willing to help – in practical ways, or with advice, or in lending a listening ear.

Also remarkable was her ability to analyze a situation and arrive at a swift conclusion. Her decisiveness helped guide and support many. Ann was a vital help on a daily basis to her Dad with his housing development in Fort Erie. She informed herself of the rules and never compromised her principles. Her connection with people showed as she could dialogue successfully with councilmen to builders.

Ann loved to travel, especially cruising. She loved the theater and often played (and sang) the scores from Wicked and Come from Away. She loved learning new skills and developing her talents. Her thoughtful approach to challenges In life is worth emulating.

We miss her dearly.

Ann’s Celebration of Life will be on April 17th from 3 PM to 8 PM at Turner & Porter 2180 Hurontario Street, Mississauga, ON. Our tribute to Ann will start at 3 PM with the sharing of stories about Ann's “acts of kindness” followed by an informal reception. Please bring your stories about Ann. Casual dress If you are unable to come but wish to view her Celebration of Life please click the "Livestream" button below.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Ed & Ann’s charitable foundation “Best Things First” would be appreciated. You can use the “donation” button at the bottom of www.edrempel.com/ann .