Friday, January 24, 2024 | 11:00 AM
Ann Louise (Schmidt) Hames passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024. She will be dearly missed but forever near in heart.
Born July 17, 1946, in Huron, SD, to Lowell and Marian Schmidt, Ann attended Huron High School and Iowa State University. At college, Ann thrived as a member of the Tri-Delta sorority and actively participated in groups focused on dancing, beauty, and merchandising. She graduated in 1968 with a degree in merchandising.
Ann's first job was with the Unique Zipper Company, which brought her to Minneapolis, where she met Richard Hames. Their relationship endured a two-year separation while Richard served in Vietnam. Upon his return, they married in late 1971.
Ann held various merchandising roles in the 1970s, most notably with the Dayton Hudson Corporation, where she served as a Buyer, Sales Manager, and Department Manager. In the late 1970s, she transitioned to the telecom sector, spending much of her career with AT&T as an Account Executive and Project Manager. Her work ethic was unmatched-she worked far more than the typical 40 hours each week throughout her career.
Ann's life was characterized by selflessness and generosity. She dedicated her time and resources to countless charities and organizations throughout the Twin Cities, including Disabled American Veterans, Vietnam Veterans, Catholic Charities, the Jeremiah Program, Families Moving Forward, the Minnesota COPE Program, and Saint Thomas Academy. As a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Grace, she actively supported outreach efforts to help the poor.
Perhaps inspired by her merchandising background, Ann spent hours assembling care packages-groups of items (school supplies, beauty supplies, etc.) that would help others. This devotion to giving was fueled by her shrewd couponing and deal-hunting skills. From groceries to everyday items, Ann never paid full price for anything. Her professional experience as a Buyer was equally evident in her personal life!
A uterine cancer survivor in 2009, Ann became deeply committed to supporting fellow cancer patients. Each year, she crafted care packages adorned with pink accents and personally delivered them to hospitals to bring comfort and hope. She extended this tradition to others impacted by cancer-both family and friends-who carried on the pink package care network where they lived.
A few years back, Ann said, "My primary reason for volunteering is to help make the world a better place. When others are struggling, I try to give them a hand to guide them forward. In the '60s, my parents traveled to several countries and cities and chartered new service clubs. I wanted to carry on the family tradition of service to mankind."
Ann is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Hames; her parents, Lowell and Marian Schmidt; and her sister, Priscilla (Ronald) Schmidt. She is survived by her son, John (Amanda) Hames, and her brother, Mark (Carolyn) Schmidt of Sahuarita, AZ.
Ann's most precious jewels were her grandchildren, Evie (10) and Jack (9) Hames, who adored her. She was a cornerstone in their lives, bringing immense joy with her grand entrances, thoughtful gifts, boisterous spirit, and fervent love.
Her unwavering spirit, generosity, and love will forever inspire those who knew her. Rest peacefully, Momma. Jesus has you.
Visitation at 10:00 AM prior to the Mass of Christian Burial.
Memorials are preferred to Our Lady of Grace or St. Thomas Academy.