Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Anna McDonald Obituary
December 31, 1981 – September 8, 2006
The family and friends grieve the loss of their beautiful daughter and friend Annie McDonald who was found murdered in her home, in the city of Santa Clara, on Friday, September 8, 2006.
Annie McDonald was a beautiful soul whose compassion towards people and animals drew those to her like moths to a flame. Annie McDonald radiated quiet compassion, had an amazing beauty of which she seemed unaware, possessed a quirky, silly, sense of humor and displayed a sweet vulnerability that she tried to hide and yet was still so apparent - these are the things that made Annie McDonald so special and so loved by everyone that she knew.
Annie McDonald would not want those that she has had to leave behind to devote their energies to hate, anger, or self-recriminations. Rather, she would want us to comfort each other in our time of loss and to devote a small part of ourselves to her life’s passion.
Annie McDonald devoted her life to the care and rescue of animals and for the past 2 years she worked at the San Martin Animal Shelter, in Santa Clara County. In addition to working at the shelter, in her personal time Annie McDonald cared for many abandoned animals and placed rehabilitated animals of many species – cats, dogs, horses, sheep, ducks, chickens, snakes, goats, and pigs.
Annie McDonald’s family and friends request that persons wishing to express their condolences donate money to the San Martin Animal Shelter to benefit the animals she so loved. Donations can be made in Annie McDonald’s name, to the San Martin Animal Shelter at P.O. Box 526, San Martin, CA 95046.
Annie McDonald is survived by her parents, Chris and Amber Kluga, her brother, Charles McDonald, her sister Catherine Kluga, her grandparents Daniel and Joyce Overlin, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins.
Memorial services for Annie McDonald will be held at her parent’s ranch in Hollister at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, September 23, 2006.
Memories and Condolences
for Anna McDonald
140 Entries
Ash
July 13, 2023
Miss you and think about you so much . I stare at all the Freddy´s I got from you and not a day goes by where I don´t wish you were here. I love you and we will hang out again .
Seth Worden
July 13, 2022
We met exactly 20 years ago this evening, and right about this hour we were deep in conversation. You were telling me about all of your pets, chickens, potatoes and special & appropriately silly things. We didn't stop talking until they kicked us out of the party at sunrise. I'm so thankful for the times we shared together. The world was a much better place when you were here in it, you wouldn't believe how crazy things have become. I still love and miss you. Every day. I will forever.
M G
November 24, 2019
Annie I love you so much
Diana Winsor
October 21, 2019
Annie......Was thinking about you today. I miss you..It always bring a smile after the sadness when I come on here and see the post from the people you touched in your too short life. I found one of the last photo's of you and Richard out at the ranch riding on the mini bike. I laughed so hard at the two of you, Richards bigger than life smile with you on the back laughing uncontrollably. Again the sadness is over whelming but the memories bring a smile and I am grateful that you left those memories for us to cherish. I love you always... Aunt Diana
Aunt Diana
September 6, 2019
Hi sweet Annie, miss you so very much, think of you so often.
Justin Gallegos
February 26, 2019
I know this is late...but Annie, you were such a great friend to me in high school. I always wanted to get in touch with you after but sadly never made that happen. You called me 'Potato Boy' and I never found out why. You were timid, yet bold. Always friendly, always cool. To be such an animal advocate at your age, is such an inspiration. I am now also a huge animal advocate, and aspire to have my own sanctuary. You truly were a person I wanted to reconnect with down the road, simply because of your great outlook on life and good genuine friendship. Very few people stood out to me in my memory of High School, you absolutely do. My heart goes out to you, your family and friends. Thank you for all you've done. Take care. - Justin
christine amber
December 31, 2017
Hey Annie, Just posted to Mom's facebook. Miss you and the future we now can only imagine. I have you picture in my bedroom and still wonder at your beauty and the unfairness of life. hugs and love
Sherry Gould
January 5, 2017
Annie, You are still missed everyday. I come across photos of you every so often and know that you are at peace with all of the animals that went before you.
Mrg
September 8, 2015
Can't believe it's been this long. I still expect to see you randomly show up. Miss and love you always
September 8, 2015
Annie,
You brought so much joy into our lives, many lives...That makes me smile as it was just who you were. I can still hear your laughing scream on the back of the dirt bike with Richard at the ranch.
The sadness I feel because you are no longer here.... Words can not explain.
I love and miss you Annie.
Aunt Diana
CTA
October 15, 2014
Annie,
Here it is 8 years later and I still think of you almost daily. I will always love you and cherish the memories we made
July 8, 2013
I love you.
Ashley Crewse/Dickerson
July 8, 2013
I miss you, and i know my sister does to. I still cant believe your not here. I think about you alot and love you. I look at pictures of you and cant believe how beautiful you are. Well we miss you and love you.
January 7, 2013
Annie,
It had been years since we had spoke, but I still thought about you everyday. So much time has past, I don't know what to say. I view this memorial every few weeks wishing that it didn't exist, it has taken me until now to work up the nerve to write on here.
Yo were one of the greatest loves of my life, I think about you everyday, and have even shared some of our experiences with my daughters. I hope they grow to be as strong as you.
Love Akways,
-CTA
Francis The Bird
December 30, 2012
And happy birthing day
rich
December 15, 2012
miss u
mrg
February 11, 2011
I miss you so much, you were my first friend, my best friend, someone i shared everything with. you never judged me you showed me what real true love is. you exposed me to everything i am today.. you saved me from many dark moments in my life. im so thankful you are in my life. i can never say were, because you still are, not a day goes by that i dont think of you and everything you exposed me to. you brought me into your family, a family that treated me better than my own.. i miss you so much. i love you
Ryan
September 28, 2010
Annie.
We met at great america, quite awhile ago. It was the early 90's
We were quite young at the time but we were going out as we called it.
Being that we met at great america we lived about 25 miles apart.
You were living in San Jose with your parents. I was north of you. Either way we got a ride to hang out on weekends.
I wanted to thank you for keeping touch with sporatic phone calls or writing. I wasn't sure why they ended and happened to run across this today while attempting to see if you were on facebook or some other social media site, perhaps you lost my number.. I lost yours. I came across this, and I am at a loss of words.
My belated condolences.
Mom
September 8, 2010
4 years. Hard to believe you have been gone that long. I think about you every day. I miss you. I love you.
Mom
December 31, 2009
Happy Birthday Annie. I miss you more than it is possible to describe.
Annies Dad
April 5, 2009
I miss you Annie, I think about you everyday. Catherine and a I talk about you often, she misses you. I love you.
michelle keith
November 29, 2008
Hi Annie,
It's Michelle...the single mom w/ the two kiddos (who you would not recognize now that they are teenagers!)...
But knowing you, you probably would've. It took us quite awhile
to go back into the SM Shelter. IT's obviously just not the same there, and of course will never be. I adopted a dog a few weeks ago. I searched on Petfinders.com for an entire yr before finally going in to meet our sweetie pie boi Scotty. He's a corgi mixed w/ bassett hound...blind in one eye from cataracts, and he's 5 y/o. He's the best. We still have all three cats we adopted while you were there. We miss you girl. I know I didn't know you very well at all, but your a beauty and a treasure. You've not been forgotten. Never could that be. May GOD bless your family during the holidays that are so difficult and challenging to get through just in general =) Love N Peace, Michelle Keith~ Gilroy, CA
RICHARD SAWYER
September 9, 2008
MISS U , RICH
mister anonymous internetuser person
September 7, 2007
Annie was one of those people that I could not stop thinking about.I loved the way she used to draw , and I guess thats all I really knew about her.I always thought that she was alot like my mother, because my mother was an artist also. I never knew my mother really she died when i was six,i never really knew annie either but I met her one time before she died.
Well now annie can meet my mother , because I know that they both live, and I know that when we die, we too will live again.
Annie's mom
August 31, 2007
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.
That apocalyptic passage keeps running through my brain. His name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. The death of my daughter and the private personal hell I have existed in since that day.
The one year anniversary of Annie’s death is approaching. I want to stop time, but each day comes and goes and time steadily, methodically pushes me forward and farther away from my child. Now she is only memories to me and I feel the distance between those memories and the now that I live in.
I want to find a dark place, to wrap my grief around me and mourn the loss of my child in solitude. I want to cry and scream and rage at the cosmos until it destroys my mind, my memory of her death, my very existence. I want to embrace hell and allow the misery I keep in check, day in and day out, to blaze up in an inferno and consume me. Maybe then, I can rise up from the ashes and for a time, exist in the world again.
Tom GreyWolf
August 6, 2007
I didn't know Annie, but I do know the sense of loss for I lost my sister when she was 21 and I was 10. It was so NOT fair, and it still isn't!! I can only say that yes, we all will be united again. That is the hope that I hang onto, for like you, I miss my sister so very much. I will pray for you and all those that miss her so much.
richard sawyer
June 9, 2007
hi annie its your cuz ,the one that used to do mean things to you all the time.anyways i miss you eventhow this is the first time ive written here i still think of you every day by the way this bird is LOUD but ilove it like u did and its fat and happy.miss u much . thanks to the people that still write it makes me smile every time i see new entrys
Paula Peppers
May 15, 2007
My prayers go out to the family and friends. I saw the video on you tube and was very moved by it. What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful person. I didn't know you, but I just wanted to express my sincere prayers for you.
Kimberly Capps
January 19, 2007
Annie was a warm hearted soul. I didnt know her well but I knew she was a wonderful advocate for the animals. She put so much love and care into the little souls that came in to the shelter in need of the extra TLC that these sick waifs so often need. Annie will be missed.
christine amber
January 1, 2007
happy Birthday Annie, I saw your mom last night and she misses you. Derby is fat and happy. He bucked off one of my clients he is so happpy and fat. Every time I look at him, I think of you and how happy you would be to see him so fit, fat and fiesty.
He tried to buck your Mom off too! We laughed, could her you admonishing her to "get off off of my horse"!!!
We love you sweetie, and miss you evey day! I have your picture on mydresser and I look at you every morning when I wake up. Your mom is a trooper, sweetheart. You'd be proud of her!
Steven Copeland
October 25, 2006
I happened to stumble across a very beautiful and moving tribute to Annie on YouTube today and I just couldn't shake the images of her lovely face from my mind. Although I did not know Annie, nor any of the people in her life, I felt compelled to visit this wonderful website dedicated to her memory. I too, have lost friends and loved ones throughout my life. My best friend was murdered in 1998 in Bismarck, ND after the liquor store that he was employed at was robbed. I remember the unimaginable anguish that I felt after his sister called me with the news that her brother, one of my dearest friends since age 9, was no longer with us.
I guess seeing that tribute today just reminded me of my friend and all the good times we used to have. In thinking of your Annie, I find myself angry and woeful that there is one less person on this earth who epitamizes all that we, as people, aspire to be. Loving and caring, traversing this world with an open heart. That I should never get the chance to meet her and share in a laugh or two makes me sad.
All my thoughts and prayers go out to you, the family, on this day. Remember that Annie was, and truly still is, a good soul. And nothing good ever really dies.
Consequently, I am making a donation to my local animal shelter. Thank you ever so much for the inspiration, and be comforted in the fact that your beloved Annie has still somehow found a way to touch a complete stranger's heart.
Michael M.
October 21, 2006
I only heard about this loss on 10/17, and was taken back with the passing.
I didn't know Annie, but I had received word from a Trio playing in Santa Barbara, that passed this information to me as I am near the area.
The only connection I have with Annie is what I have read, and now I know she will sorely be missed by all, and the pets she cared for.
Strength and memories to the family and friends.
Carla Navarro
October 19, 2006
I met Annie when I was volunteering at the animal shelter. We were not that close but It broke my heart when I herd what had happend to her. Annie you will be missed deeply. And will always be in my thoughts and prayers
James Eisner
October 15, 2006
My wife and I went to high school with annie at Santa Teresa High. Although we were never close friends with her, her unexpected and tragic passing deeply upsets my family and I. Many of my friends were close with her and I pray for them, and her family. After looking at this website and annie's legacy on myspace, I can't help but tear up. the 24 years that she spent on this earth was a blessing for everybody, and everybody owes it to her...to never forget how many lives she touched, and how tragicly it all came to an end: and in her honor, I gave my dog a huge hug.
Amber Kluga
October 12, 2006
Thank you so much for all of the kind words, thoughts, and sharing of memories of Annie.
There is an event happening in honor of Annie with proceeds benefiting the San Martin Animal Shelter. For more information please visit Annie's website at www.annie-mcdonald.com.
Daniel Harlan
September 30, 2006
Many years ago I spent a weekend with Chris, Amber, Annie and Charlie. Even now I remember clearly Annie's love for animals. I can remember one night as we, and several strangers nearby, watched the wonderfully unique sight of a 10 year old Annie on her knees tracking a small bird as it foraged in a parking lot.
It seems to me in her short life she touched a lifetime of souls on Earth.
Corey & Steve Allen
September 26, 2006
I am a dear friend of Karen McAninley (Lindholm) in Tampa, Florida. She shared the website with me, and I'm so glad that she did. What a truly beautiful family you have. Although, I never had the pleasure of meeting Annie, I know what an amazing person she was. She'll make a beautiful angel.
May you find solace each time you look up at the sky, and see the twinkling, brightest star, to know that's your Annie watching over you. Our prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult, and unwarranted time.
Tony Bursese
September 24, 2006
It's been soo long since I last saw you, but the news of your death makes me sick. I know where you are you are at eternal peace and solotude, free of pain and the sickening sight of mankind. I remember when You, Angela, Steve, Joe and I went rick or treating because we had nothing to do on hollween. We had sucha great time enjoying each others company. I remember hanging out with you at lunch at ST in the corner and we would talk music and just joke around. I still have the drawing you gave me back in 2000 its now hanging on my wall in your memory. It makes me sad that it took your death to wake me up and realize that i missed your friendship. I will cherish the memories I have of you.
Your friend Tony
Jamie Buck
September 24, 2006
I did not know Anna, nor her parents or family. I work for an attorney, and I read a lot of crime reports. There is nothing I can say that will register, but please know that my thoughts and prayers - not to mention my hope[s], are with you.
Angela Morden
September 23, 2006
I didn't know Annie; I just happened to stumble onto her My Space page. I cannot stop crying right now. I can't imagine how your poor family is coping! Annie & I have *A LOT* in common, &, for this reason I naturally feel drawn to her. I've worked with animals for YEARS as well. She shared my passion for all creatures in this world. I *KNOW* she is up there working with Steve Irwin now. I just know it! Annie was a STUNNING beauty, and, obviously a very gentle, kind, compassionate soul. I am just SO SO very sorry for your tragic loss! May the memories you have help to soften the sadness you now feel in your hearts. Your family is in my prayers!
Danice Densmore
September 23, 2006
Amber, Chris and Family
Just today I learned of this unbelieveable tradegy that has been thrust upon you and I am saddened to the depths of my being. I know you will find the beauty of Annie in all living things as that is what she will always be...living in your hearts. I wish you steady breaths as you pass through this pain...and know she waits for you.
I pray for peace for each of you and I send....
Hugs from the bottom of my Heart
Angela Dickerson
September 22, 2006
My Annie banannie,I miss you so much.I don't know how I will go the rest of my life with out you here with me.But I know where you are and when I pray to god I know you are beside him, so I am close to you.You are more alive than we are here,and I will see you again.You are my best friend still and always will be forever.I love you more than I know how to say.See you when my time comes,save me some brownies,I bet they are better up there.I love you chicken butt.
Ahron Shapiro
September 22, 2006
I did not know Annie, but from what I've read, I truly wish I had. She sounded like one of those people who makes this world a better place to live. May her memory be a blessing to those that knew her, and may her spirit live in in the kind, loving and generous acts of those whose lives she touched.
BOB RIBARDO
September 22, 2006
DEAR ANNIE THANKYOU SO MUCH FOR GIVING THE KNOWLEGE FOR CARING FOR ALL THESE LOVING ANIMALS. WHEN I FIRST STARTED WITH THE SHELTER 10 MONTHS AGO I HAD KNOW IDEA ON WHAT TO DO. I WATCHED VERY CLOSELY IN HOW YOU TOOK A WILD LITTLE KITTY NOT EVER BEING HELD BY A HUMAN AND MADE THEM TRUST AND FEEL COMFORTABLE ,WHICH GAVE THEM A CHANCE IN THIS WORLD. THAKYOU SO MUCH FOR ALLOWING ME TO WORK DAILY SIDE BY SIDE WITH YOU AT THE SHELTER. IM GOING TO MISS YOU. I KNOW DEEP IN MY HEART YOUR HELPING ALL THE SCARED ANIMALS IN HEAVEN, AND WILL HELP GUIDE THEM SO THERE NOT SCARED. AS YOUR BROTHER STATED ITS NOT GOODBYE ITS I'LL SEE YOU LATER .YOUR PRESENCE IS FELT VERY STRONGLY IN THE SAN MARTIN ANIMAL SHELTER AND IT IS VERY COMFORTING.
Dorothy Overlin
September 21, 2006
Dear Amber and Chris
I remember when Annie was a little girl and her brother and cousins would come to her Grandma and Grandads house. The first thing she would do was go out to the rose bushes in the yard and look for spider webs and bugs. She would guard them from being played with by the cousins and brother to make sure they would not get hurt. She loved all creatures, large and small and they all seemed to return her love.
Great Grandma loves her very much. She will leave a big void in our hearts.
Great Grandma Dorothy Overlin
Donna Stewart
September 20, 2006
To the family of Annie...I am a co-worker of Annie's Aunt Diana & Cousin Brandi. The last week, I have had a glimpse of what a special person Annie was. I cannot imagine what you are going through right now...but, my thoughts are with all of you! Hold on to each other in this time of sorrow.
Miriam Holland
September 19, 2006
Amber,Chris,Charlie and Catherine
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. We will all miss Annie so much. I had only met her a couple of times but I think of her as intelligent and beautiful. When I last spoke with Chris I got a kick out of sharing daughter stories. Annie, Chris is so impressed with you and how you have shared your life spirit with everyone. He glows everytime he mentions your name, and you will always be a blessing in the life of your mom, dad, big brother and your little sister.
God be with all of you.
Penny Noel
September 19, 2006
Annie,
I remember you best sitting at the front counter at the shelter with a red bandanna in your hair and Bandit in your lap. You brought levity to the shelter and I was always glad when you were the person at the front when I was there. I noticed the signs around the place started to have happy doodles. Even from those little drawings it was obvious you had a lot of artistic talent. I also remember thinking you had a lot of compassion, focus and composure for a young person still making their place in the world. You are missed by a lot of people and animals.
Karen L. McAninley
September 18, 2006
Dear Amber & Chris, I am so sorry to hear the loss of Annie. My heart goes out to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm here for you. Love you.
Barbara C.
September 18, 2006
To the family of Anna Marie, over the past week, since I've heard the news, I have thought of you all often. I did not know Annie personally, though through her brother I feel like I do. I've looked at her pictures and thought "what a beautiful and unique young woman". You can see something special about her that no one else can hold a candle to. Remember that presence of hers, for that is what lives on in the hearts of everyone she touched with her bright, beautifully vivid, and unique light, all her own, that will shine on for you all forevermore. Peace be with you, and God Bless.
John Harlan
September 17, 2006
Dear Annie, I miss you very much and am so saddened by your loss. I remember you from all the visits to see you and your family. I met you when you were about 8 and will always remember you in the many touching memories you gave me. You hugged me when you were little and as you grew older you would push away, but not really. When you came to our house in Washington, I made you drive my tractor and you gave me a hard time, but wouldn’t get off until your mother and father saw you driving it. The wonderful painting you made and gave to us as a house warming gift, it has always and will forever hold a prominent place in our home. I would call to talk to your father, you would answer and we would talk for 10 minutes before you would pass me to Chris. I was working on a car in your garage and my hands were dirty, you were dressed in black, I said “great I can wipe my hands off on your dress and it won’t show”, we all laughed and them went out for coffee. I left my kids at your house for a week and you shared all your animals with them, they thought you were the coolest.
You will be terribly missed and we love you so much. I can’t describe the pain your loss brings me. I will always remember you through the memories you gave me and my family.
I love you Annie
John Harlan (La Center Washington)
Tim & Karen DeRosett
September 16, 2006
Amber & Chris,
There are no words that can adequately express how sorry we are to hear about the loss of your precious Annie. Her bright smile and warm way with people and animals were a blessing to so many. I can see her mom's smile in her pictures and know the love and joy she brought to you both. Please know that we are in prayer for you and all that have been touched by her life. Remember that He's always there for you--even in the darkest of times. Lean on Him and love each other.
Love you guys
Elizabeth Evans
September 16, 2006
The companion animals of Santa Clara County lost one of their best friends with Annie’s untimely death.
Annie loved the kitties and saved the lives of many of the hundreds of cats and kittens that came into the shelter each year. She worked tirelessly to get them out of the shelter and into loving homes. She cared for them at the shelter and she fostered numerous cats and kittens herself. Annie was the person to pick up the phone and call for a foster home when one was needed and she was instrumental in getting the shelter through kitten season every year she was there.
Annie loved the pit bulls almost as much as she loved the cats and she found many of them great homes. When a good example of the breed came into the shelter, Annie would become the dog’s champion. It was common to see Annie at the front counter on a Saturday or Sunday, bottle feeding a kitten with a pit bull calmly munching on a treat at her feet.
Annie did a difficult and often thankless job with love, compassion and a generous spirit. She spent countless hours of her own time on her fosters and her pit bull adoptions out of her deep commitment to and love for these animals. Those of us volunteers that knew Annie and worked with her at the shelter are devastated by her loss. We hope and pray that the animals Annie cared for during her life that died before her were waiting to escort her across the Rainbow Bridge. God bless you Annie, wherever you are…
brandi sawyer
September 15, 2006
my cousin annie, when i think of you there are no words that do justice to how much i miss you. we grew up very close, and we have so many memories, so many memories to hold in my heart and when i see you again we'll have eternity to do all the crazy things we used to.
our family will never be the same without you. i never thought anything like this would be happening in our family. we are so much closer because of this tragedy, but no matter how close we are, we'll never truly heal without you, you were an irreplacable part of us and now your gone. we'll never see your pretty smile, or hear you laugh again, but you'll always be here in spirit, and in our hearts.
you were too much of a beautiful soul to be in this world, and your love and compassion were needed up there. He welcomed you early because you deserved more than to live in this world, and your in his hands now.
take care of all your critters, kid. i'll see you someday and we'll all be together and be a family again like we used to be.
i love you and miss you
Dee
September 15, 2006
Dear Chris, Amber and Catherine,
We are truly sorry for your loss. Always remember and visualize what a reward all the animals in heaven have acquired with Annie arriving to help them out. We are true animal lovers and we enjoyed meeting Annie (she is quiet). I know that we now have an angel in the sky to watch over all of the pets we truly have loved and will love, throughout the years. We have stopped in at the shelter and met her there without even realizing it.
We hope that every time you see a star you will remember how special your beautiful daughter really is.
Love, Dee, Dan, Sierra and Brooke and all our shelter adopted animals.
Susette Urmeneta
September 15, 2006
Annie, I know you are up in Heaven taking all the new little animal arrivals under your wing. My heart aches for you and for all those who loved you. You will be missed by so many.
Beverly Blount Reason
September 15, 2006
Amber and Chris,We are so sorry of your lose.You are in our prayers.She was a great girl,with all the things that she done with her life.It takes a special person to take care of animals.With our love,Beverly
Vicki and John Dulchinos
September 15, 2006
Annie, your time on this earth was short but your impact and legacy will live forever.
Amber and Chris, we are so sorry. We know words can not make up for your incredible loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We know that Annie's spirit will live on and that she will always be with you.
Sherry Gould
September 15, 2006
Dear Annie,
Spock it is!
Sherry Gould (F.O.S.M.A.S.)
September 15, 2006
Everytime that I went to the shelter for supplies and kitties Annie was there. It will feel so empty now. She was so sweet. Annie you were taken too soon and will be terribly missed. My heart goes out to the family at this difficult time, but I know that there is a new angel in Heaven and a new twinkling star in the sky.
Michelle Kurtz
September 15, 2006
In Utterance
Forgive me by the necessity
of a might be feeling, in
the shape of unsent letters, voices
that swallowed by night.
Tamara Corini
September 15, 2006
My love and support to you, your family and loved ones, Chris and Amber, for the tragic loss of Anni to all your lives.
She had grown into being such a unique woman and beautiful person, I see why you were always so proud of her.
My heart swells for your loss.
Arely Arenas
September 15, 2006
My condolences go out to Annie´s family. I met Annie back in high school and she always struck me as someone with a free spirit. I didn´t have the pleasure of knowing her well, however I am a close friend of a family member and I know the pain that comes with the loss of a loved one. I am very sorry for your loss. Rest in peace Annie.
Pat Lindholm
September 15, 2006
Dear Amber, We are still stunned and saddened by the news of Annie's death. We take comfort, though, in knowing that she is in a better place and is taking care of our cat, Russell, who passed away August 17. Love, Aunt Pat
David Cappellani & Family
September 15, 2006
The Kluga Family,
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort and the good Lord watch over you and guide you.
Mark Hansler
September 15, 2006
Amber,
I am so sorry to here of your loss. It seems annie had a great spirit and touched many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
May peace be with you!
Mark & Kris Hansler
Kishor Parekh
September 15, 2006
I did not have the pleasure of ever meeting or getting to know Anna, but I do know a life that she touched, that in turn has touched me; therefore, I believe that we are connected. May Anna's sunshine, love, care, and life continue to manifest itself expodentially through all those that that she touched during her short sojourn on this earth. May she rest ....
Adil Shafi
September 15, 2006
Dear Amber, I am very sorry to learn this sad news. May God grant you and your family consolation, strength and peace.
Jean-Michel Bombar
September 15, 2006
God Bless you all
Marco Mazzini
September 14, 2006
My sincere condolences.
Christine Amber
September 14, 2006
The spirit of Annie, I think of a young girl who would come to ride horses in combat boots and fishnets, who was independent and creative. Beauty, oh my, her humaness was so beautiful. Her blue eyes, and if you were lucky, she would look at you and smile and you would see the spirit of Annie in those georgous blue eyes. Did I also love that little girl's hair, and style. I can't think of her or see a picture without smiling. Her spirit gives me joy, her spirit is present whenever I think of her. I'm smiling now, thinking of Annie.
Kim Bagby
September 14, 2006
Hi Annie
I've had the pleasure of knowing your mother (and Dad) for over 10 years. You were a young teenager when I met your family. Your mom used to tell me about you with such pride. Your family loves you very much and you always gave them such joy. Peace be with you Annie.
Lorraine Blount Peckham
September 14, 2006
Amber and Chris,Even though we are far apart,I am here for you and your famliy.Anna was such a special young woman.The gifts she gave out of her heart will always be remembered.Our thoughts are with you.
Stephanie McEntee
September 14, 2006
Dear Annie,
Your memory will live on forever in the lives of all the animals that you lovingly helped over the years. You rescued and cared for so many with your gentle soul. We enjoyed working with you and will carry on your dream of helping all the homeless animals. Each paw print will be your gentle hand touching each animal with love.
With deepest sympathy to your family. May the memories of Annie bring you a little comfort and a loving smile in the days to come.
Justin Souza
September 14, 2006
Annie,
The memories come swarming.
The long cold rainy days, walking endlessly, you me and johnny. Time well spent and many of my fondest high school memories. Countless hours turning into endless days. I will always hold our times close to my heart. Having only recently found you again, you will always remain dear to me.
My condolences to the family and close friends of Annie. We can only take comfort hoping her soul rests peacefully in a place better than this one.
Hai Chang
September 14, 2006
Amber, We didn't know Annie, but there are no words to express how much we wish you and your family didn't have to endure this pain. It's obvious that Annie has touched so many people's lives and will be missed immensely. We are thinking of you and your family and offer our deepest sympathies. Love, Phung and Hai
Nina
September 14, 2006
Anna,
I only met you briefly a few times, you adopted the persian/tabby sister of our two kittens Sasha and Sabu. Thank you for your dedication to finding animals a good home. I am deeply saddened that we will be missing an animal lover and wonderful person like you in the world.
Inali
September 14, 2006
I am so so sorry to hear about the loss of the McDonald's family. I never knew her but she was the sister of a friend. I am horrified to hear what happened and all my best wishes and prayers go to you all!
Michelle Keith
September 14, 2006
Hello to Annies family and dear friends-
My children, Taylor & Tristan, and I have been volunteers at FOSMAS off and on for a few years. I am awful at memorizing names to faces. Ava has been wonderful sending out e-mails to all of our volunteers to inform us of this tragic event. For me, it wasn't until this morning that I viewed Annies pix online and it took my breath away to see her. To read her story. To imagine the pain and sorrow your entire family and pets/and her pets, must be experiencing. I am so sorry. My children and I did a lot of the pet socialization so we had a lot of contact with Annie. Some weeks we would be there after the kids got out of school five days straight. So we sorta knew her. She helped us with info. on the kitties-which one could come out of the cage, etc. She was always so helpful and polite. The last time I saw her she was washing her car in the back of the shelter. That is my last memory of her. My kids were with me, and this was last summer around father's day-
To The Family: Each and every one of you are in our thoughts and prayers. With Love and Sympathy:
Michelle, Taylor and Tristan Keith
May God Bless You ALL
Tiffany Cole
September 14, 2006
I wish we had kept in touch after high school. You were able to realate to side of me that no one else could back then. I'll miss you terribly.
Chuck McDonald
September 14, 2006
Annie,
What can I say to you that wouldn't have you making fun of me..you are my little sister and I will never speak your name in the past tense as if you no longer exist. What you know to be true, spiritually, so do I and many of us also. The ones who don't, are coming to it on their own and I know they will have their breakthroughs.
I see your passing as a tragedy that is giving rise to a miracle. First in the way that we have all come back together as a family to remember how much we love each other, and then later in the things that we are going to do in your name. I have mental images of you up there playing with wild animals alongside Steve Irwin now..try to tell me that wouldn't be a kick in the BEHIND (had to repost this whole thing to get around the censorship :P )
I thank God that we all went to Richard's wedding together and had such a great time, and I'll carry that picture of you with me always until we meet again on the distant shore. I have absolutely no regrets about us and I love you more than life itself.
I think Chris and Mom are remembering that they love each other too, and you're to credit for that. I can never thank you enough for being who you are and how you're continuing to be with us. Many of us have commented on how your presence is so real out here at the ranch. I know you were with me the other night out behind the barn when I broke and you're here now as I write this. Even though I don't hear you with my ears, I know what you're saying in my heart as real as if you were sitting here.
You have put me on a new mission, little sister. I promise I'll live up to it my whole life!
To everyone who has commented and emailed me, your support has been overwhelming and I know my sister appreciates it. I know the rest of the family does as well. I don't know what you all believe, but here's what I believe:
None of us will ever really die, so don’t say goodbye. Say we’ll meet again…but not today.
Greg Simmons
September 14, 2006
God Bless
Clegg Family
September 14, 2006
Amber, Chris and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss of Annie. During this time of heavy hearts and sorrow, remember Annie and the sunshine that she brought to your life and all those that knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need.
Charlie Duncheon
September 14, 2006
Annie, our time together was limited yet I remember you so clearly. That is yet another testament to the wonderful person you are and how you touched people.
Amber and Chris, I will be out of the country on the 23rd but your family remains in the prayers of the Duncheons.
Erin Emilio
September 14, 2006
Amber & Chris,
I'm sorry for your terrible loss. I remember little Annie growing up when you brought her to work. We will all miss her.
DeeArland Johansen
September 14, 2006
My deepest condolences to the Kulga family. I'm so very sorry for your loss and I'm thinking of you dearly. I worked with Amber @ Adept Technology for years and never met Anna Marie but I just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you and yours. Words can't even begin to express the pain I feel for you and your family. Please take care, Dee
steve edmonson
September 14, 2006
Amber, and Chris, I am praying for your consolation. Annie would not want you to stay sad. Boy did she look like her Mommy. Love Steve.
Frederika Luk
September 14, 2006
Sweet Annie,
I will miss you. Your love for all animals big and small will not be forgotten. Never was anything to much for you to do, from bringing cats to us at Petco, to taking many sick animals home to foster. Thank you for showing us all how its done, so we can pass it on to others.
you will be always in my heart.
Frederika Luk
Patty Cook
September 14, 2006
Anna touched my heart when she came to the office with her mommy. She made me the most beautiful Dalmatian picture (Domino) that I still treasure to this day. My heart and love goes out to her family. I just wanted them to know how a piece of her lives forever in my heart.
jennifer wilhoit
September 14, 2006
I just wanted to express my deepest condolences to Annie's family and friends. This tragedy reminds all of us how helpless we are in the face of such a catastrophe where only sadness, pain, and anger remain
Her warm spirit will live on forever.
Margo Jones
September 14, 2006
I never was able to meet Annie but the stories Amber has shared with me always filled our conversations with joy & laughter. Annie was a remarkable person who has affected people all over the country. Her rich soul is still teaching us tenderness, compassion and most of all the importance of sharing love. Annie will always be an important part of our lives. We will have many great rewards in reflection of her.
Thank you, Amber and family for creating such a fine person.
Thank you, God for sharing the wonderful Annie with our world.
Seth Worden
September 14, 2006
When I read Angela's post I was stunned. The words sent my world falling out from under me. I wasn't ready for anything like this.
Oh Annie, why did you have to leave? I can only imagine that there is a reason; that there is a plan; that you were taken because somewhere you are needed far more than we need you, but it breaks my heart. This world, and all of us residing in it are poorer for our loss.
Even though we haven't talked for quite some time, I still think of you daily, I often reflect on the times we spent together: they were the happiest in my life. I'm so blessed to have shared those moments with you.
Annie, thank you for the gift of your friendship, love, kindness and compassion. Thank you for sharing your smile, for the look in your beautiful eyes and your loving charm. Thank you for my 'chicken nose' birthday cake, and for all those memories that I will cherish for the rest of my days.
Annie, you will always have a home in my heart.
Your work here is done, now rest well. We will try to cary on as best we can. I'll see you soon, my love.
Amber & Chris,
She was the light and love of so many lives, I can't even begin to find the words to express how sorry I am for your loss.
Shelley Brignac
September 13, 2006
I did not know Annie personally, but have gotten to know Amber and consider her a dear friend. She speaks of her children with enduring love, pride, and the joy that comes from having a closeness with your children that is enviable. My heart is torn with thoughts of your loss, and I know that your Annie, from all I have heard of her, would be someone I would have loved to know. My deepest heartfelt sympathy goes to you and all of your family right now and my wishes for your happy memories to take precedence in your mind in the days to come.
Kenneth Birmingham
September 13, 2006
Annie, you have touched the hearts of so many people, you will be missed so dearly. I am so glad to have known you. This world has lost such a great person it will never be the same without you. Its hard to imagine that i will not talk to you and see you until my time is up. Our family misses you so much. i never realized how loved someone can be until this tragedy has occured. Not only were you an awsome person, but an amazing spirit and soul. My brothers and sister miss you so much. We will always charish the wonderful memories that we have created together. You and Charlie are not my cousins, you guys are my brother and sister. i love you and miss you Annie.
Chris Kluga
September 13, 2006
Thank you to all of Annies friends, co-workers and supporters for your uplifting comments, they bring us strength and happiness. Please visit pictures of Annie at:
http://www.annie-mcdonald.com
Thank you again, you are all a testament to the kind of person Annie was and always will be in our hearts. (The family of Annie - Amber, Chris, Catherine and Chuck)
Cheryl Goldsmith
September 13, 2006
Dearest Annie-
I will miss you deeply. I will miss that passion and love you showed all animals that came through the shelter and the special ones you made yours. You made more of a difference to all those 4 legged little ones than you will ever know. I feel very honered to have the privilage of knowing you. Your heart was one of unconditional love and soul full of beauty. You were always true to yourself and fought for what you belived in. You will always be my Annie Bean. Your smile will always be in my heart.
To Annies parents-
Thank you for sharing her with us. You did an amazing job. Annie did more wounderful things in the short time she was here than most people will do in a lifetime. She was a true friend that I will miss always.
Luv, Cheryl
Cheryl Goldsmith
September 13, 2006
Dearest Annie-
I will miss you deeply. I will miss that passion and love you showed all animals that came through the shelter and the special ones you made yours. You made more of a difference to all those 4 legged little ones than you will ever know. I feel very honered to have the privilage of knowing you. Your heart was one of unconditional love and soul full of beauty. You were always true to yourself and fought for what you belived in. You will always be my Annie Bean. Your smile will always be in my heart.
To Annies parents-
Thank you for sharing her with us. You did an amazing job. Annie did more wounderful things in the short time she was here than most people will do in a lifetime. She was a true friend that I will miss always.
Alisha & Brandon Hawkins
September 13, 2006
We didn't know Annie, but we live in the same neighborhood. My heart goes out to her family and friends. God Bless.
Megan Daniel
September 13, 2006
Annie,
when i was a kid i looked up to you. you are truly the beautifulest girl inside and out I have ever met.
Showing 1 - 100 of 140 results
Make a Donation
in Anna McDonald's name
How to support Anna's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Anna McDonald's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more