Ann V. Blumenthal, 89, passed away in her home after a short illness on Thursday October 22, 2026.

She was born in Chicago on October 4, 1937, the daughter of Edward and Romola (Schutz) Voynow.

Ann was an avid reader, a competitive scrabble player and Bridge player. Ann had a great love for the Chicago Symphony, which she attended for over 50 years. Ann’s other passion was the NFL, now there are football fans and then there was Ann. Anyone who knew her knew not to call or invite her anywhere on a Sunday, Monday or Thursday night during the season, because the answer was always the same, “Oh darling I’m sorry, it’s football season”.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Nicholas “Eddie” Blumenthal, Justin Leo Blumenthal (Casie) Blumenthal; great grandson Jackson Blumenthal; brother Edward Voynow; her step daughter-in-law Sharon Bywater; step grandson Timothy Owens (Delia, Jude, Henna, Lowe) and her beloved best friend of 30 years John Giardono, whom she considered family.

Predeceased by her parents Edward and Romola, her son Jackson Blumenthal, former husbands Shepard Blumenthal and Bill Bywater, and step granddaughter Lucy Bywater.

Ann will be missed in a way that only those close to her can imagine.

A special thank you to the caregivers who in her final days, showed her incredible love and compassion, and allowed her the dignity she possessed and deserved in life.

Memorials made to the Francis Parker Academy in Chicago, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in her name.

Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S Mulford Rd. Rockford. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com