Hello to lucky people who were graced to know Anne! I was not one of them, but when I read her obituary in the Troy (OH) Daily News today I could not go without saying a few words. What a beautiful tribute to her and her life! Thank you for sharing, as I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your Anne, her life and your life together! Peace be with you!!!
Renee’
Alan Gusching
As I read and reread Dave’s email announcing Anne’s passing a flood of remembrances come to me:
• Anne teaching me how to cook several of my now favorite dishes: pan seared salmon, garlic mashed cauliflower, blueberry pancakes with real hand-whipped cream, Italian sausage stuffing
• Weekly pork tenderloin dinners at Outback
• On stage in Harvey as a last minute replacement actress
• Fishing with my kids in Arizona
• Paddling on Blue Mountain Lake to pick wild blueberries
• Motor boat ride pointing out various camps on Blue, Eagle and Utowana lakes
• Encouraging her colleague Patti to try out Jaime for a role in a reader’s theater edition of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
• Awed at her rendition of the Scottish play
• Comforting her dog Logan after a bit of discipline
• Modeling her Derby hats
• Learning to appreciate modern art with my personal docent at various museums
• Marveling at the artwork she was creating for her Blue Mountain Lake house
• Walking with her along the trails in Sedona
Anne, I so miss your gentle spirit that I came to know so well during my several years of visiting with you and Dave each week when I stayed at your home during the days I worked in Piqua. You were such a great friend to my family over the years as you invited us to share your homes in Sedona and Blue Mountain Lake. I pray each day for the repose of your soul. Rest in peace. Alan
Mine Gusching
Dear Anne,
We are so so sad at the thought of not seeing you for awhile. We already miss you so much. I miss your hug, your laughter, and the way you would walk into our house with an awesome hat and colorful outfit, your beloved Logan tucked under your arm. We were so close to seeing you one more time on your way to Sedona this November.
Dave, I am so sorry for your loss. You made such a good husband and wife team. You were devoted to her well being, tirelessly changing her bandages, taking her to doctor visits, keeping her buoyant without complaint. In every situation you had her back. Sincere gratitude for taking such good care of her.
Anne, A-N-N-E, that word spells mom in Turkish, my first language. And I have to say Anne was a wonderful mom to many kids. I met her at Edison College where I taught math and she taught art and directed plays. I remember she always had students in her office. They adored her and sought her advice. Anne was so available to them. Whether it be at play rehearsals, at the art gallery, or on campus, Anne was always surrounded. She was in tune with her students. She championed their causes during their time at Edison and long after they graduated. Anne decorated her office door with pictures, announcements, colorful commentaries. I first viewed the beautiful landscapes of Sedona, Arizona by gazing at a photo posted on Anne's door.
One summer in 2001, my family and I decided to visit Sedona on our vacation to the Grand Canyon. At the time, Anne and Dave were fixing up their house. They showered us with hospitality none-the-less. We shared a wonderful meal together at a nearby park, where Anne caught trout from the pond. My kids soon learned that Anne was an expert fishermen with all kinds of hooks and gear passed on to her from her father. From this vacation onward, we visited Anne and Dave often and they started to become part of our family.
Our teenage kids totally respected Anne and her many talents. She showed them fishing tricks, directed them in The Scottish Play, cooked healthy meals for them, and continually showed up at their important life events. Our story is a beautiful story of how friends can become family.
It was always a treat to go with Anne to museums, hear Shakespeare stories, and hunt for bargains at thrift stores. She was up-cycling before the word was invented. She lived such a gloriously rich intellectual life.
I will always appreciate my memories of Anne and treasure her advice. I will remember her big smile, how she shook her head approvingly, and how her big eyes glimmered with excitement. She listened attentively. She spoke up against injustice. She stayed true to her compass and encouraged all of us to do the same.
The day I learned Anne died, the sun never came out. It rained all day. It really felt like the whole world was sad that we lost our Annie. My older sister is gone for now and I keep crying. But then, I am struck with the thought that Anne loved the sunshine. I know that wherever you are, you will be basking in the sunshine. Anne you are free of your ailments. Where you are now, Anne, I hope you are enjoying hot water with lemon, eating everything you want without caring about the ingredients, finding all the right actors for your a fabulous Shakespeare plays, staying warm, and painting to your hearts content with full, sweeping arm motions.
May you rejoice and run around reconnecting with your loved ones in your heavenly home. Farewell my older sister until we meet again. Thank you for including me and my family in your circle of love.
- Mine Gusching and Family