Ann SukCha Song

Ann SukCha Song, a woman of remarkable resilience, selfless love, and steadfast faith, passed away tragically on March 16, 2025, at the age of 89, in a car accident in Huntley, McHenry County, Illinois, while returning to her home in Woodbury, Minnesota. She entered eternal rest peacefully, spared from suffering, and now rests in the embrace of her Savior, Jesus Christ, where "there is no more mourning, crying, or pain" (Revelation 21:4).
Born on May 15, 1935, in North Korea to Seok Do Song and Kwang Ja Kim, Ann's early years were marked by courage amid turmoil. At age 11, as the Korean War broke out, she fled to South Korea with her older brother, Chu Sun Song, and grandmother, tragically separated from her parents and siblings, whom she never saw again. Without formal education, Ann learned to type and speak English-a rare and impressive skill in Korea at the time. She used these talents as a secretary for a U.S. Colonel in the Military Police Branch in Uijeongbu, South Korea.
In 1959, while working on a U.S. military base, Ann met and married Frank Choe, with whom she welcomed daughter Christine in 1960, son John in 1961, and son Phillip in 1967. The family immigrated to the United States in 1973, seeking a brighter future. Devastatingly, in 1975, Phillip passed away at age 7 from a brain tumor, a loss Ann carried with quiet strength.
In the U.S., Ann's determination and work ethic defined her path. She worked as a typist at Allstate Insurance Company in Morton Grove, Illinois, by day, while learning data entry at Queensway in the evenings. She later joined Fel-Pro in Skokie, Illinois, as a data entry operator, dedicating many years to her role. As her children pursued higher education, Ann and Frank ventured into small businesses, including a restaurant and a laundromat. After retiring at 65, Ann lived for over 20 years at Centennial Senior Apartments in Mount Prospect, Illinois, where she became a trusted friend to fellow Korean residents, helping newcomers navigate American life with her language skills and boundless patience.
In July 2021, Ann relocated to Woodbury, Minnesota, to live with her son John and his wife Karen. Though leaving her Illinois community was difficult, she warmly embraced her new home, forging friendships at her church and maintaining ties with loved ones across Illinois and beyond. A cherished visit to the Chicago area the week of March 9, 2025, filled her heart with precious moments alongside family and friends, unaware it would be her final trip.
Ann's life radiated selflessness and care. As a devoted mother and grandmother, she always put others first, leaving a legacy of kindness and generosity. As a young girl in North Korea, she loved swimming, but her adult years were devoted to work and family, leaving little time for hobbies. In retirement, she cherished church activities, reading the Bible, and time with family and friends. Her faith was her cornerstone, and she longed for those she loved to know the peace she found in Jesus Christ.
Ann is survived by her children, Christine (Mark) Hosler and John (Karen) Choe; grandchildren, Sara (Mike) Danoski, Jonathan Choe, Jesse (Bethany) Choe, and Joshua Choe; great-grandchildren, Asher Danoski and Micah Choe; sister-in-law, Bong Sik Song; and nieces, Kathy Song and Angela Song. She was preceded in death by her son, Phillip Choe; grandson, Paul Hosler; and brother, Chu Sun Song.
No memorial contributions are requested, as Ann's greatest desire was for her loved ones to find eternal hope through faith. A memorial service will be held at a later date for the immediate family. May Ann's memory inspire us to live with her same compassion, strength, and unwavering love for others.
Final arrangements entrusted to Fox Valley Cremation Services.
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