Obituary of Sister Anna Maria Wanner

Sister Anna Maria Wanner (Sister M. Petronilla) peacefully went home to her loving God on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Ruth Ross Residence in Saint John, NB.  Born September 7, 1925, in Jacobsburg, Saskatchewan, she was the daughter of Matthias and Pauline (Fleck) Wanner.

Sister Anne said she was “born in Big Sky Country-South Saskatchewan-at a time when no rain fell, and the sun often disappeared behind clouds of dust or grasshoppers.”  Living on a farm with her seven brothers and four sisters, the values of faith, family and commitment were instilled in her.

When WWII began, her brothers went into service, which left Anne and her sisters to tend the farm with her parents.  Once all safely returned, she knew she could then leave to become a Sister and fulfill her hopes.

She entered the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception on February 2, 1947.  Anne received her NB Teacher’s License in 1952 and remained in her education ministry until 2004.  She taught in several provinces, including Saint John, NB, Wetaskiwin, AB, Digby, NS, as well as Vancouver, Surrey and Burnaby in BC.

After her retirement, Sister Anne continued to volunteer in the school and the parish in Surrey, where she visited care homes and shut-ins.  To those who knew her, she was a woman devoted to her faith, education ministry, community and friends.  Her relationship with the SCIC Associates brought her joy and she was always interested in their lives and families.  Sr. Anne was always up for an adventure and lived her life with joy and kindness.  She loved nature and music, especially symphonies, violin and piano.

It was said that Sister Anne had a fondness for the “little ones, especially those who needed that extra care and encouragement."  She was sensitive to those less fortunate, assisting at the St. Vincent de Paul Society and being part of a knitting group who knit blankets for anyone who was in need.

Predeceased by her parents Matthais and Pauline; brothers Edward, Matthias Jr., Joseph, Alphonse, Paul, Anthony and William and sister Petronilla. 

Sister Anne is survived by her sisters Connie Conlon (Patrick), Theresa Dukart (Jake) and Mary Novak (Walter).

Visitation on Tuesday, August 27, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM, with Prayer Vigil at 6:30 PM at Ruth Ross Residence (105 Burpee Ave).  Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, August 28 at 10:00 AM in Carmel Chapel at Ruth Ross Residence.  Interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Saint John.

Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424).