Anne McCann

In Chicago, Paul McCann, a promising law student, gave a ride from Chicago to Minnesota to two women. One being Anne Marie Zwisler, who was a graduate student and also working as a counselor.  The other woman was referred to as a Jackie Kennedy look alike. However, it was Anne Marie who won Paul McCann’s interest when she showed her traits of generosity, appreciation, empathy, by offering to pay her share of the gas expenses. Anne Marie McCann was impressed by Paul’s ambition, his devotion to the Catholic faith.  However, it was Paul’s great sense of humor that caused her to say yes, because she knew Paul McCann would never bore her.

That ride lead to 65 years of marriage. Both Mom and Dad, with their traditional mid-west values, work very hard together to support their large family which they were proud of.

After the honeymoon phase was over.  Bill was born, followed by Tom, Paul Jr., Miriam, Genet and Tim.  All six children within eight years, talk about overwhelming stress and remember there were no disposal diapers back in those days. A few years later, they were blessed with two more children, Kathleen and Sheila.

Mom and Dad moved from Chicago to Bismarck to Rapid City to Edina to Great Falls to Billings to Polson and after Dad passed away she spent her winters in California visiting Sheila, then finally moved with Toby, her golden retriever, to Avila Beach, California. She passed away peacefully in her California home on Saturday, July 20th.

Anne Marie's family and friends remember her as beautiful strong Catholic lady who was full of life, laughter and adventure! She was gracious and kind to family, friends and strangers alike.  People would say I never heard her say a bad word about anybody.  She loved visitors especially her family. She will be missed very much and remembered by all who graced her friendship.

Anne Marie leaves behind her eight children, 15 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren for now. Death is not the end of the road it is just a bend in the road. Please remember her in your prayers and thoughts.

The vigil wake will be held in Polson, Montana at Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish on Monday, August 5th at 7 pm all are invited. The funeral mass will be held at the same place on Tuesday, August 6th at 10 a.m. and all are welcome to celebrate all of the 96 years of a life for Anne Marie McCann.