Ann Anita (Dargan) Pine

July 26, 1939 - September 2, 2020

Ann Anita (Dargan) Pine, known and loved by friends as Annie Pine, was called home to the Kingdom of God in the early morning of September 02, 2020 in Bellingham WA at age 81 after an intense attack and battle with ALS that lasted mere months. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Albert (Al) Carl Pine, who was called home to the Kingdom of God on December 31, 1969 and by her brother David Steele. She is survived by her son George, daughter-in-law Judy, and 2 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Carl , brothers Danny Dargan of Saugerties, NY, Dick Steele of Athens, N.Y. and sister Betty Jane (Dargan) Coons of Gig Harbor, WA, along with many nieces, nephews, and their families. Annie was born in upstate New York on July 26, 1939 in Saugerties, New York to Clarence (Jake) Dargan and Emma (Ricks) Dargan (later married to “Bud” Steele after Jake’s untimely death). After graduating from Catskill High School, she married Albert (Al) Pine of South Cairo, New York in September 1957. Annie was always out front. Whether being out front racing snowmobiles for Team Ski-Doo or holding a Class “A” Driver’s license in the 1950’s hauling Al’s heavy equipment onto job sites. She also used her willingness to be out front to serve others. Annie served as an Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Communion for the Catholic Church at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Vancouver, WA and at Assumption Catholic Church in Bellingham, Washington, providing Eucharist and comfort to shut-ins and nursing home residents over the decades. She was active in Bible study, drew comfort from her faith constantly, and shared that comfort with others. Service to others also permeated Annie’s professional career from her work with the Extension Service in New York teaching less fortunate families how to eat well on a limited income and later her work with the social services in New York State. After moving to the West Coast with her son George she once again worked to serve others in her works with the Health Department in Pierce County and later with the Department of Social and Health Services in Vancouver, Washington from which she retired after 18 years of service. Annie leaves behind many who were touched by kindness, good nature, infectious laugh, & generous spirit. This includes many informal social groups, as well as formal organizations. One important organization in her life was the Fraternal Order of Eagles, where she served as a member and an officer in the Auxiliary in both Gig Harbor (Aerie #4425) and Vancouver (Aerie #2158), combining her joy in service to others and her zest for life. Annie moved to Bellingham, Washington to be closer to her son and his family. After moving to Bellingham, she quickly became a vital, involved member of the community at The Willows, a retirement community. She enjoyed a spirited game of cards or dominos with neighbors & friends. Annie loved all types of physical activities (yoga, walking, strength training) as long as it involved people - she was up for the challenge until the onset of ALS forced her to seek full time professional care at Summit Place Assisted Living and Mount Baker Care Center. Annie would want you all to not mourn her passing, but to celebrate her life and the love she freely gave to her family, friends, and the community. She would also tell you to take those hard- earned dollars and not spend them on flowers or memorials, but to donate them to women and children’s causes or so moved to the ALS foundation. Mom, Grandma, Aunt, Grannie Annie, we miss you already, we miss your love of life, your unashamed way of living, your immense sass and most of all your genuine love given freely to all. Annie’s remains will be laid to rest at Catskill Rural Cemetery in the family plot, where she will join her late husband. A small service will be held at the time of her interment. Condolences may be made at www.richardsfuneralhomeinc.net.