Ann Sitler 1930-2025

Born June 25, 1930, in Bellvue, Pa., Ann was the daughter of Janet Miller Reineke and Karl Edward Reineke. She lived a full and vibrant life marked by love, laughter and a deep connection to her family and friends.

A proud graduate of Boardman High School, Class of 1948, Ann was a dedicated and active member of St. James Episcopal Church. Her involvement in the church was extensive, as she served on the Vestry, contributed to the Memorials Committee and participated in parish life activities and pastoral care.

Notably, she was the founder of Knitters for Veterans, where she and her fellow knitters lovingly crafted over 400 shawls for veterans, providing warmth and comfort to those who served.

Ann was an original employee of Dearing Compressor & Pump Co. and dedicated 44 years of service to the company. Even after 30 years of retirement, she remained a dear friend to many of her co-workers, a testament to the lasting impact she had on their lives.

Ann was preceded in death by her son, Karl Wilson Sitler; her brother, Edward T. Reineke; her brother-in-law, Hugh Banninga; and her son-in-law, Earl Ducay.

She is survived by her three daughters, Karla Wood (Frank) of Midland, Michigan, Laurel Ducay of Poland and Roma Papania (Dom) of Dublin. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Abby Ducay of Westerville and Matthew Ducay (Daron) of Dublin, Kristin Wood (Chad Felker) of Midland and Kenneth Lynam (Mary Lewis) of St. Johns, Michigan. Ann also leaves behind her cherished great-grandchildren, Brylie JoAnn Felker and Haden Jeffrey Felker of Midland, Salem Lewis of St. John’s, Julia Ann Ducay and Colton John Ducay of Dublin, and Henry Hecker of New York, New York, whom she considered as her great-grandson. Additionally, she leaves her sister, Carolyn Banninga of St. Johns.

Ann’s true joy came from her family and her church. She loved decorating her year-round, holiday-themed tree, creating cherished memories for those around her.

Ann was an original member of the Hour Thyme Garden Club, established in 1980. For 44 years, she enjoyed lasting friendships, shared her passion for gardening and crafting, and served as the club’s secretary. Her green thumb was also evident in her many houseplants and flower beds.

Ann’s generous spirit was often expressed through the countless treats she baked and shared, a simple act that was always met with smiles. Ann had a witty sense of humor and treasured a good laugh, making her a pleasure to be around.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects to Ann from 11 to 11:50 a.m. Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at St. James Episcopal Church, 7640 Glenwood Ave., Boardman, followed by a funeral service at noon. A private graveside service will be held for the immediate family at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Boardman.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ann’s memory to the Earl J. Ducay Scholarship at the Youngstown State University Foundation, 655 Wick Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502, or St. James Episcopal Church.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Ann’s family.

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