Ann M. Wasman

Ann M. Wasman, 83, of Yorkville, IL and more recently The Villages, FL passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025. Born on February 26, 1942, to the late Leo and Lois Kelly in Plainfield, IL, Ann spent most of her life in Illinois until retiring and moving to The Villages. She was a proud graduate of Plainfield High School and kept in touch with a few of her classmates from elementary thru high school. She earned her bachelor's degree from Illinois State Normal University, now Illinois State University, and her Master's degree from Northern Illinois University. She worked for Glenbard East High School, Lombard, IL, as the head librarian and yearbook advisor until her retirement in 1994. During her career in education, Ann wrote several instructional books for the American Library Association that were published and sold by the ALA. She was also a sought-after presenter at multiple national conferences regarding the published library techniques. After Ann's retirement she went on to have a career working under Tom Cross, former member of the Illinois House of Representatives from the 97th district. Ann spent many years as the office coordinator in Tom's Oswego office. During this time, she was actively involved with The Lincoln Series providing leadership and campaign training to women in elected and appointed political positions at various local, state, and federal levels. Ann and her husband, Ben, shared a passion for vintage vehicles. Together they owned multiple vintage vehicles and she held various positions within the Oldsmobile Club of America and the Tin Lizzie Model T Club. Their first Model T was purchased at an auto auction in Auburn, IN where Ann had gone to purchase a daily driver. When that vehicle sale fell through she bid on and ultimately won a 1919 Model T which began their years of membership in Model T club's. Together, Ann and Ben, organized and participated in multiple vintage vehicle tours for both the OCA and Model T clubs crossing many states, involving more than two dozen vehicles at a time, and over multiple days. Ann never backed down when a volunteer was needed whether it was loading or unloading from a trailer, polishing chrome, detailing an engine, or taking photographs, you knew she would help. Their most recent vintage automobile was a 1914 Ford Model T Depot Hack which they enjoyed traveling in throughout many states including Florida and The Villages with their beloved dog, Wilson. After moving to The Villages, Ann became an avid fan of The Villages Polo. She spent countless hours volunteering as an officer in The Villages Polo Club and as a club volunteer giving talks to introduce spectators to the sport and answer questions. For multiple years if you could not find Ann on the polo grounds you would find her in the stands watching the teams play at the polo fields. She and Ben even traveled to watch The Villages team play in Barbados. They were blessed to take many trips together over their years of marriage. Ann is survived by her husband Ben, of The Villages, FL, and her chosen daughter, Alicia (Eric) Robinson of Cicero, IN, one granddaughter, and her favorite rescue dog, Wilson. She is also survived by her niece Donna Jean (Kelly) Robinson and her nephews, Michael, Tom, and Brian Kelly. Ann exhibited strength, a passion for education, and bestowed love on those around her, she will be deeply missed. Ann was predeceased by her 2 beloved brothers, Larry and Dan Kelly, as well as her sister-in-law, Carol Kelly, all of Illinois. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Plainfield, IL. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your local library or your local animal shelter.