Devoted mother of Ann-Margaret (Bob) and John (Trish). Adored grandmother to Laura, Bobby, and Alyssa.
Anne was born in Philadelphia on September 8, 1939 to Joseph Wiedemer and Barbara Bonfig. Her mother passed away when she was 5 years old. Since she was the youngest child, Barbara asked her sister, Anna, to take care of Anne. She wanted her to have a mother figure. She was raised by her aunt, Anna Bonfig, whom she called “mom” and uncle, Bill Bonfig.
Anne attended elementary school at St. Bartholomew and graduated from St. Hubert’s in 1957. She started working for Bell Telephone Company her senior year of high school following in the steps of her Aunt Anna (mom).
On October, 24, 1964 she married the love of her life, John. They were happily married for 36 years until he passed away on February 24, 2001. They raised their family on Ditman Street. This is where she made her greatest memories and acquired many lifelong friends. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve were always special. Everyone would gather to celebrate and enjoy a delicious meal.
Anne took a leave from the phone company to raise her children. She volunteered as a teacher’s aide and library assistant at St. Bartholomew’s School where her children attended. She also volunteered at St. Bartholomew’s Church. Anne was a Girl Scout leader for 25 years. She loved spending time with the girls and watching them grow. It kept her young at heart. She formed long lasting friendships with many of the women she met during these years. Eventually, she went back to work at the telephone company and retired in 1999. In 2000 she started working in a real estate/tax office. She enjoyed the interaction with people. It kept her busy. The girls in the office were more than coworkers. They were like family.
Anne loved spending time at the campground. This was her second home for over 28 years. There were many happy memories made here. She started taking her grandchildren there when they were a couple weeks old. They grew to love the campground as much as she loved it. She enjoyed watching all the birds, especially the hummingbirds. Anne loved all kinds of animals. Her home was always filled with pets. She left behind her cat, Copper, whom she adopted in January and her loyal companion of almost 9 years, her dog, Abby.
Anne not only loved watching baseball, hockey,football, and basketball, but she could tell you all about them. Her favorite teams were the Phillies and Flyers. Anne loved listening to Elvis Presley, reading books, and doing puzzles.
Anne’s greatest blessing and joy were her grandchildren. Nanny never missed an opportunity to be with them. She was their biggest fan. She went to almost all of their softball, baseball, soccer, and basketball games. No matter what they were involved in, she was there. When her grandchildren were younger, she volunteered as a lunch mother at St. Timothy’s where they attended school. She was so proud of them. Her love for them was immense as well as their love for her. Her favorite saying for them was , “you’re not spoiled, you’re loved”.
Anne’s faith kept her strong. She always had a bright smile and a kind word to say. She always put others first. She wouldn’t hesitate to offer a helping hand. She was a friend to everyone she met. Anne was a loving mother, devoted wife, caring grandmother, and loyal friend.
She will be greatly missed.
Relatives and Friends are invited to attend her Memorial Gathering Friday, October 9, 2020 9:30 AM at Resurrection of Our Lord Church (Castor Ave & Vista Street, Philadelphia PA 19152) followed by her Funeral Mass 10:30 AM. Rite of Committal Our Lady of Grace Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Anne’s name can be made to Philadelphia Urgent Rescue and Relief/purrphilly.com
