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Ana Linn Obituary

Ana's Motto: "Life is an adventure." and she lived it traveling to seven continents, multiple countries (some many times) as an explorer and xenophile to experience the sensory embodiment, novelty, and learning that comes from travel. Ana believed cultural exchange was the avenue to world peace. From stargazing in the Amazon, to meeting orangutans in Borneo to experiencing an early morning Africa game drive and the colors of icebergs in Antarctica, she felt blessed to witness the dazzling beauty of nature. Life is short; no guarantees.



She loved nature, gardening, swimming, fencing, hiking, and her beloved myriad of companion animals and outdoor wildlife. She loved God's creatures and once even successfully resuscitated a drowned daddy-long-legs spider in her bathtub.



She was a strong proponent of education and held two healthcare licenses, two Master's degrees, and had pursued a Ph.D. On her first day of kindergarten, she was sent to the principal's office for her curiosity: she wondered and approached an underground garbage container too closely. Although as a child she wished to be a cowgirl and was fascinated by weather/meteorology, her math skills stymied her from pursuing the latter occupation; so, her education and international experiences led to a career in the pharmaceutical industry where she worked for the better part of that career at Abbott, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson. She was a lousy typist, had terrible handwriting, and lacked the virtue of patience which she worked diligently to improve.



A lover of the arts, music, dance, cuisine, and theater, she believed in having fun! She exhibited her flair for the dramatic by being a movie extra, volunteering at live theater including Shakespeare festivals, and performing in a testimonial commercial. Philanthropy and volunteering were important parts of her life, as she contributed to numerous organizations to demonstrate gratitude.



Her happiest moments and greatest creative achievements were the births of her sons, Dr. Jason Linn and Daniel Linn of whom she was immensely proud. It was only as an adult and after a DNA test that she learned of her Denisovan ancestry. As a believer in time travel, she felt blessed to be born at this time in history and said, "see you in the next life!"



Any donations to animal welfare, World Wildlife Fund or a reputable environmental organization would be appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on May 1, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Ana Linn

Not sure what to say?





Gretchen van der Lyke

December 10, 2022

So saddened to learn this- I was about to her a Christmas card. What a beautiful picture of her when she was young. How stunning she was then. She loved my work and was always so helpful.

Carey J. Cook

June 21, 2022

I often think about my warm-hearted friend and our trip to the Spice Islands or just going to local events in the Chicago area. Jason and Dan my heartfelt condolences, I know that I don't have to tell you what a special person she was with her infectious smile. My Condolences to Ana Linn's family. Rest well, my friend!

Dayton Osland and Erlinda Colby

June 12, 2022

While we never met Ana, we know you Dan and she must have been a wonderful person. We hope your time of sadness is short but your memories plentiful and permanent.

Sheryl Lambert

May 14, 2022

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. We live in the same neighborhood and met her walking her dogs. Always pleasant and warm to talk to. She will be missed as a familiar friend walking her dogs. She lived an amazing life.

Staate William Hayward

May 4, 2022

I loved her sense of adventure and traveling with her around the world every now and then.

Single Memorial Tree

susan L price

Planted Trees

susan clark price

May 3, 2022

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Mary C Dominiak

May 3, 2022

I hired Ana to work for me at Abbott many years ago. She was amazing then, and it looks like after we went our separate ways, she led an absolutely amazing life! I am sorry for your loss.

Marilyn Skalstad

May 1, 2022

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. She was a beautiful and interesting lady. God bless you and be with you at this difficult time.

Al Rivera

May 1, 2022

My Condolences to Ana Linn family.. R.I.P my friend , I remember Ana always trying to convince me to go on overseas trips with her. But we did plenty of local adventures. Will always keep her memories in my heart.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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