Ann Whittier Closser

Ann is survived by sons Bob Closser III of Hailey, Idaho and David Closser of Moab, Utah and daughter, Mary Ann Closser of Park City, Utah, in addition to five grandchildren and brotherJames Marshall Whittier of Mission Hills.  Her beloved husband of 68 years, Robert Closser Jr., passed away on March 17, 2021.

Ann was born December 17, 1931 in Kansas City to Mary Josephine Lundteigen and Marshall Waldo Whittier. She graduated from Southwest High School then the University of Kansas where she was a Kappa Alpha Theta. She married Bob Closser on October 10, 1953.

Life with Bob was truly adventurous but Ann was always willing to accompany him on their outdoor trips to ski, canoe, scuba-dive in the Caribbean and more. She was a stay-at-home mother who loved caring for their three children, all influenced by their spirited father. The outdoor exposure often included family trips to Colorado to ski, ultimately resulting in the three children moving west, much to Ann’s disappointment. However, the family built a log cabin in Granby, CO in 1989 which allowed Ann and Bob to entertain many friends and family through the years. Gazing out the window at a snow storm cozy by the wood fire was always a highlight for Ann.

Exposure to nature was also a natural transition to Ann’s love for gardening. She was an active Johnson County Master Gardener with her wildlife garden being highlighted in the 2004 Master Gardener Tour. Her banana trees, butterfly garden and goldfish pond were always her favorites.

Ann cherished her home, the many years spent at Mission Hills Country Club and her time with the Kansas City Missouri Junior League, Village Presbyterian Church and as a volunteer gardener at the John Wornall House herb garden. Beyond gardening, Ann loved to cook, entertain, travel and spend time with her children and grandchildren. She and Bob moved to Mission Chateau Senior Living four years ago where they immersed themselves in a wonderful community of new friends. Ann has touched numerous people over the years with her warm welcome and charming personality. She was a beautiful woman, a loving friend to many and will be missed dearly.