With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Ann Koochin on Sunday, November 27 at the age of 87. She was born on February 22, 1929 in Grand Forks in the Doukhobor Community of Sion to parents William and Lucy Lapshinoff.
Ann was the second of three children – her older brother Bill and her younger sister Mary. Even at an early age, Ann took on the responsibility of helping around the home, with the gardening, and tending the family milk cows and chickens. She developed a strong work ethic that served her well all her life.
From her mother, she learned cooking, crocheting, knitting and sewing which are skills she excelled at throughout her life.
In 1949, Ann met Peter Koochin and in January 1950 they were married. They were blessed with two sons: Steve and Jack. Peter worked at Zak’s Body Shop, while Ann dedicated herself to looking after their children, their home and their garden.
Ann was a lifelong member of the Union of Spiritual Communities of Christ, and a very active member of their Ladies Committee where she enthusiastically participated in the Ladies Cooking Groups and other activities.
After their sons grew up and left home, Ann worked for Boundary Home Support for ten years where she whole–heartedly dedicated herself to the cause, and was well loved by all her clients.
In their later years, Ann’s husband, Peter, experienced health issues, and in 2012 he moved to the “Silver Kettle”.
Ann had her own health challenges and although she slowed down in some ways, she kept herself very active with the household, the garden, taking care of Peter, visiting friends, and driving her car until her last days.
Last week, Ann’s health worsened and on Sunday evening, she was taken to Boundary Hospital where she peacefully passed away.
She was predeceased by her parents; her brother Bill Lapshinoff; and her beloved grandson Jesse Koochin. She is mourned by her husband Peter; their son Steve, his wife Andrea and her beloved granddaughter Anuska Koochin of San Diego, California; her son Jack Koochin of Grand Forks; her sister Mary Voiken of Grand Forks, and many dear family members and friends.
Ann was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a gentle, kind and quiet natured woman, hardworking and peace-loving; a beautiful spirit. She will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by her family and friends. May God accept her soul into his heavenly Kingdom and may she rest in peace. The funeral services took place on Saturday, December 3 at the U.S.C.C.
“Our beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Auntie and Baba… Forever in our hearts”