Ann Marchinko, age 88, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 17^th surrounded by her loving family. Ann is survived by her daughters Gayle Francis and Jhoni Marchinko, her brother Frank Dunn, her devoted grandchildren Adam and Kelly Francis, son-in-law Steven Francis and daughter-in-law Toni Hutt. 

Ann was born on October 12^th, 1928 and was raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As the oldest child of three, during her teenage years she worked various jobs while attending high school to help support her family during the Great Depression. In 1952, Ann met Arthur Marchinko, a World War II veteran who would become her husband and the love of her life. Ann and Arthur were married in 1953 until Arthur’s death in October 2016. They lived in Reading, MA for their entire adult life. Deeply fond of each other, Ann and Arthur valued family and love above all else.

Ann and Arthur’s marriage bore three children, daughters Gayle and Jhoni, and their late son Kenneth. As a full-time mother, Ann recognized and fostered the unique talents of each of her children. She focused on raising her children in a well-rounded environment stressing the importance of academics, sports, and friendships. 

After her husband retired in 1990, Ann and Arthur started visiting San Diego, California for six months of the year to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Ann’s hobbies included reading, writing, exercise, traveling, and involvement in local community organizations. However, her greatest accomplishment was her unwavering love for her husband, children, and grandchildren whom are deeply saddened by her passing. Having only two grandchildren, Ann was closely involved in their lives. Her grandchildren view her as a significant positive force in their lives, showing them unceasing and unconditional love that will remain in their heart forever.

During her life, Ann touched many people by her genuine kindness and willingness to help those in need. She was a true lady with an unmistakable tenderness and joy in her personality. Even in her old age, Ann had countless friends in California and Massachusetts who are grieving her passing and celebrating her life. 

Services will be held in San Diego, California in several weeks. Arrangements by the Cota Funeral Home, North Reading. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you pray for the souls of Ann and her late husband, or make a donation to the Kaplan Family Hospice House or the Middlesex-East Visiting Nurses Association, both of which provided Ann exceptional care and support during the final year of her life.

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