Anna Marie Twisselmann

1916 - 2014

Salinas

Anna Marie Twisselmann

Anna Marie Twisselmann, 97, of Gonzales, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2014. Arriving this day, February 25, 1916, to the proud parents of Leon and Anna Blomquist, a little girl, who they named—Anna Marie Blomquist.

Anna Marie, known throughout her life as "Ann", joined sister, Mildred and brothers, Harold, Arthur and Ray, becoming one of the Thirteen (13) Clan. Following Ann was sisters, Helen, Margaret, Dorothy, Alma, Nina, brothers, Walter and Henry and at last sister, Gloria May.

Ann was raised in the Spence District, south of Salinas, as a farm girl, doing her share of chores and helping "Mother" taking care of little ones and household duties.

Growing up, helping Mom, Ann also helped "Pa", as their Father was called, in the fields. All of this, still schooling, an education, was a must (horse and buggy days—rain or shine—off they all went).

Ann graduated from Alisal Grammar School and Salinas High School. She then entered the working world.

Not much social life in those days, but Chualar had a roller skating rink (a hang out). That is where Ann met Herman W. Twisselmann, better known as "Archie". Yes! They got married (1939) settling in Gonzales as a ranch couple. Soon came three kids, Carol Ann, Sandra Lea and John Lee.

Ann was active in their activities (Brownies, Girl Scouts, 4-H etc.) Ann was also a member of the Native Daughters of the Golden West and Palisade Rebekah Lodge, taking the chair of Noble Grand.

In 1993, with 54 years of married life, her husband "Archie" passed away.

Others leaving before her, were her parents, Leon and Anna Blomquist; sisters, Mildred Silacci, Dorothy Sgheiza, Alma Henry, Nina Matheisen, Margaret Henry, and Helen Pura; and brothers, Harold, Arthur, Raymond, and Henry Blomquist.

She is survived by her children, Carol, Sandra Lea and John Lee Twisselmann; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Walter Blomquist; sister-in-law, Gloria Blomquist; sister, Gloria May Chadwell; brother-in-law, Herbert Chadwell and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Private Family Graveside service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity.

Funeral arrangements by Struve and Laporte Funeral Home.

For more information and to share a memory, visit www.struveandlaporte.com.