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Ann Dahms

1949 - 2024

Ann Dahms obituary, 1949-2024, Frederick, MD

BORN

1949

DIED

2024

FUNERAL HOME

Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A. - Frederick

1621 Opossumtown Pike

Frederick, Maryland

Ann Dahms Obituary

Earle Ann Kessinger Chapline Dahms passed away at home in Frederick, Maryland, on December 1, 2024. Born October 2, 1949, in Munich, Germany, to Charlotte and Walter Kessinger, Ann lived a life filled with adventure, intellectual curiosity, and deep human connection.

Preceded in death by her parents, Ann is survived by her beloved husband of 34 years, Joseph Dahms. She leaves behind stepdaughter Melanie Shelton (Jim) and grandsons Max and Liam; stepsons Kevin and Ray Kiddy and their families; sisters Candy Kelly (Michael), Elaine Kessinger, Yvonne Lebherz (David), and Katie Downs (Timmy); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

Ann's early years were spent abroad with her family, fostering a lifelong appreciation for diverse cultures. Upon returning to the United States, she graduated from Thomas Johnson High School in 1967. A free spirit, Ann embraced a simpler life in New Hampshire, living on a remote mountain and working at the University of New Hampshire.

Returning to Frederick, she earned her BA in History from Hood College and built a successful career as a technical writer in the healthcare industry. Ann was an avid reader, a lifelong learner, and a deeply spiritual individual. She cherished her travels, especially to France and Germany, and cultivated meaningful friendships throughout her life.

Ann cherished her life in Frederick with Joe, forming lasting bonds with friends such as Annie and John Commito, Don and Margaret Hindman, Sue and Doug Meikle, Kathy Falkenstein, and Tom Lesser. She also developed a special connection with her neighbors on East 4th Street, particularly Jen Elliott and her beloved dog, Charlie.

Ann found immense joy in the beauty of the world, from art and literature to the simple pleasures of everyday life. She was a thoughtful and compassionate soul, facing her final journey with grace and acceptance.

Joe extends his sincere gratitude to the many who supported Ann during her life, including the dedicated staff at the Stockman Cancer Center and Hospice, the congregation of Glade Valley Church of the Brethren, Pastor Becky Henry, and dear friends Tyanna Draper and Pam Marshall.

We will deeply miss Ann's warm spirit and the profound impact she had on all who knew her. Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.

A memorial service will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Glade Valley Church of the Brethren, 2 Chapel Place, Walkersville, Maryland.

Ann Dahms

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

Published by The Frederick News-Post from Dec. 23 to Dec. 21, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Ann Dahms

Sponsored by Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A. - Frederick.

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6 Entries

Dave Mayo

January 18, 2025

Dr. Dahms, our thoughts and prayers to you and all the family. In June of 1998 I was fortunate to take your European Economics class in Strasbourg, France. The first day I was sick from Jet Lag due to lack of sleep. Ann took care of me and ensured all the students were alright. Ann was one of the kindest ladies I have ever known. Take Care, Dave Mayo

Peaceful Reflections

Marian and Jim Granger

Sent Flowers

Anonymous

December 26, 2024

Such a kind, loving woman. She was my Sunday school teacher for a period of time at Glade Valley Church Of The Brethren, and it was a memorable time. Just so gentile, and caring and that meant the world to a young hard headed teenager. Definity one of a kind and definitely will be missed by many. Much Love. My thoughts are with you Mr. Joe

Mary Cooper King

December 25, 2024

Ann was a beautiful, loving and fun soul.

Melody Handley Sexton

December 23, 2024

Dear Kessinger Family ,
My condolences to all of you and her extended family.
Remember her kindness ..
Bless you all.
Melody

Kaye Gastley Rhodes

December 23, 2024

To all the Kessinger Girls, I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear sister. My deepest sympathy is with you and your family.

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Memorial Events
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Jan

18

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

the Glade Valley Church of the Brethren

2 Chapel Place, Walkersville, MD

Funeral services provided by:

Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A. - Frederick

1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD 21702

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