Anne Wehrer

Anne Wehrer 77, died in her sleep early on March 22 2007, after a brief stay at the Coming Home Hospice in SF. She was born Anne Opie Counselman in Norfolk, VA, and made her debut in Baltimore and in NYC. At the age of 18 she lost her left leg to bone cancer yet quickly adapted to her prosthetic and lived a full and influential life. She was an unconventional but devoted hands-on mother to five children while becoming widely known and admired in art circles. She was instrumental in establishing the ONCE Festival of New Music in Ann Arbor, MI, and as a member of the ONCE group she toured the country bringing avant-garde performance art to art museums and universities during the 1960s. Her home in Ann Arbor was a mecca to many of the leading artists, composers, and filmmakers of her era. She was a featured actress in Andy Warhol's film "Bike Boy." After moving to NYC she became a magazine writer and later toured with Iggy Pop and co-authored his book, "I Need More." She was a great facilitator. Always ready to explore new things, make new friends and to help young artists advance their work. Despite the onset of dementia in 1997, her spirit survived, thanks to her daughters who provided unfailing love and stimulation. She was physically mobile and in good spirits until the last week of her life. Hers was a life rich in experience. She gave much to many. She is survived by her children, Martha Huddle, Thomas Wehrer, Paula Jean, Lisa Anderson, Stephen Wehrer; their father Joseph Wehrer; and five grandchildren. In addition she is survived by her brother, Richard Counselman of Norfolk, VA. A Memorial Gathering will be held later in the spring.