Margaret Ann Landgrebe, 85, passed away on January 9th after a short illness. Ann leaves behind a network of friends and relatives who will dearly miss her thoughtful, caring and joyful spirit. She was born in 1930 and raised by her parents, William and Mary Swank on a farm in LaGrange County, Indiana. She graduated from Manchester College, later earning a Masters degree in Education from Purdue. Ann was a committed learner herself, pursuing high levels of education and always acquiring new skills and hobbies. She will be remembered as a tireless lover of others, evident first in her beautiful, tight-knit family, then in her relationships and care for her students, and finally in her commitment to serving her community. Ann taught school in South Bend, Fort Wayne and in Lafayette at Tecumseh Jr. High. She was elected three times to the West Lafayette School Board and served for 12 years from 1986-1998, including being President of the Board from 1990-1991.
Ann is survived by her husband of 56 years, Dave, and by her three children, J.D. and daughter-in-law Sue of Cincinnati, Carole Landgrebe of Cincinnati, and Mary Landgrebe of Norfolk, VA. Her journey through life and resilient, faithful spirit will remain an inspiration and comfort to them. Being involved in the lives of her two grandchildren, Katie, 22, and Chris, 17, brought great joy to her life. She was an integral part of her family and remained close to her two sisters, Jane and brother-in-law Bill Keaffaber of Kokomo, and Mary Katherine and brother-in-law George Fisher who preceded her in death. She especially enjoyed being with extended family at Thanksgiving and celebrating Christmas in Cincinnati.
Ann had many interests and friendships, continually learning and teaching those around her. She was an avid gardener, hosting tours of her garden in West Lafayette and winning awards for its creative beauty. She was a master seamstress and chef and delighted her family with her creations. Understanding the importance of stories to remind us where we come from, who we are and where we’re going, Ann pursued genealogy, tracing the many branches of her family and finding surprising connections and stories that she loved to share. She also enjoyed collecting antiques and made many lasting friendships at shows and auctions. She loved her membership in the local PEO sorority and its many friends. Ann and Dave are longtime members of Faith Presbyterian Church in West Lafayette where she served in many roles including as an elder of the church. Friends will be received from 5:00 until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 13th at Faith Presbyterian Church with the Funeral service being held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 14th also at Faith Presbyterian Church with Rev. David Horner officiating. Burial will take place at Grandview Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to Faith Presbyterian Church.