Anna Mae Harness

Ann Harness, 94 of Cassopolis, Michigan passed peacefully in the presence of family after a brief illness. She was born November 17, 1929 at home in Cassopolis, Michigan to Benjamin and Ruba (Bement) Williamson. She is survived by sons, Tim (Cindy) of Cassopolis, Brian (Virginia) of Cassopolis, and Kevin (Kim) of Allegan; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, brother Eugene (June) Williamson of Elkhart, Indiana, and sister, Alice (George) Pabreza, of Edwardsburg, Michigan.

Ann graduated valedictorian of her high school class, and soon went to work at the Electronics Division of C.G. Conn. She stepped away from work to raise her sons, but, later, entered Bethel College at the age of 34. She graduated summa cum laude in 1969, then taught at Woodland Elementary in Elkhart for twenty years. She earned a Masters Degree from Indiana University at South Bend, and taught Education courses at Bethel College.

 As a member of Mason Baptist Church, Ann taught Sunday School, taught and directed Summer Vacation Bible School, and served on committees too numerous to count. She and Don served as youth directors for an association of seven Baptist youth groups. More recently, she was a long time member of Adamsville Road Church of God, where she also helped with various community services that the Church provides.

 She was an excellent cook, and Christmas cookie baking was a tradition carried on with Ann for generations. She enjoyed golf, bowling, and water skiing, and was an excellent ice skater. Camping and hiking were also favorite activities. She was in her element when preparing and hosting holiday meals and family get togethers. Her love and support for each member of her multigenerational family was unmatched, and she was so proud of them all. Ann’s entire life revolved around serving others. Few things gave her more joy than when she was helping people.

 Family and friends are invited to attend services at First Church of God, 21083 Spencer Rd, Cassopolis, Michigan, at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday October 15, 2024 with visitation starting at 10:00.

She will be buried next to her husband Don following the service at Five Points Cemetery, Edwardsburg, MI.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 www.samaritanspurse.org

 Arrangements are by Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, Indiana 46514. Online condolences for Ann may be made at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com