Adriana “Ann” Jimeno O’Brien passed away on January 13, 2017 at the St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings. Ann (or Anna as her dad had called her) was born to Gladys Montana Buhl and Maximeno Charita Jimeno in Butte, Montana on September 1, 1939. She was born in humble beginnings as Gladys and Max made a home in a boxcar her first couple years of life. Max and Gladys eventually purchased an apple orchard in the Biitteroot Valley where they made a home for Ann and her five siblings. As the oldest of five children Ann would tell stories of life on the apple orchard. As a young child and the oldest sibling she would talk about getting in trouble and trying to outrun the closest branch or willow her dad could find. She would say laughing that she could outrun him but eventually would concede to the punishment. A lot of Ann’s character was built upon the lessons she learned on the orchard and the lessons she learned from being raised by a Filipino immigrant father and her determined German mother. These lessons included loyalty, determination and pride of who she was. When Ann was in high school, her father Max sat her down at the table after receiving his citizenship and said “Anna always be proud that you are an American Citizen”.
After high school Ann left to attend school at Eastern Montana College to obtain a teaching degree. The completion of her degree landed her a position in the small town of Poplar, MT, far removed from the Montana in which she grew up in. During her first year she attended a teacher’s dance held at the American Legion where a young Irish cowboy, Patrick O’Brien, asked her to dance and didn’t leave her side after that night. The courtship was quick as Pat did not want to waste any time to make the beautiful Filipina his bride. Patrick and Ann married on June 4, 1960 at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Poplar in a beautiful and elegant wedding hosted by Pat’s mother Amy. Ann was very fond of Amy for how accepting she was of her during a time where mixed relationships were frowned upon. Pat recalled how happy his mother was that he had found the perfect girl by telling his sisters “I really think Patrick loves this girl”.
Just as quickly they courted and married, Pat and Ann wasted no time in building their family. They made a home at the O’Brien homestead north of Poplar where they brought into the world Shannon Marie, Maureen Ann and Colleen Raye three years consecutively. The girls kept Ann busy and as she was quick to say “never gave her body back”. Four years after Colleen was born they finished their family by adding their Father’s Day baby, another girl, Patricia “Patti” Jo. Ann raised her daughters much like she was raised, high expectation and stern discipline. She and Pat pushed their children to exceed academically, pursue music and participate in sports. She enjoyed sitting in the stands during their games, often the loudest one cheering, and especially enjoyed their musical endeavors. Pat and Ann also believed in the merit of hard work and wanted them all to be college educated. All of the girls, despite the resistance, grew up to be much like their mother in that they grew up to be strong-willed, determined women despite odds set before them. They also made their mother and father proud by becoming college educated and three of the four pursuing their mothers’ field of education.
Besides becoming a mother and wife, possibly the most notable and important aspect that was introduced to Ann’s life upon making a home in Poplar was becoming a Catholic. Ann was baptized in the church prior to marrying Patrick in the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Upon becoming a Catholic, Ann was a staple in the church community through the music program and the Women’s Diocese. She enjoyed playing in both the Poplar and Wolf Points parishes, participating in meetings and travelling across the state and country to attend conventions.
Ann’s gift of being a beautiful pianist and singer was also something she shared freely. There has been very few weddings and funerals that she has not played in the Wolf Point and Poplar Communities. She will leave a lasting impression on the Poplar Schools music program and will be forever cherished by students from the last 60 years. Ann accompanied hundreds of choir groups, duets and soloists over the years including her daughters and granddaughters. She also taught piano lessons over the years, hoping to encourage young people to pursue the gift of piano and music. Some of her favorite memories of piano lessons included using shopping catalogs to make sure her smallest piano players could fit at the piano, the moment when the student could play the music correctly and sharing a snack and visiting. Some of her students might notably remember her use of a pencil as a metronome, singing along to the music and staying stuck on the note if it was played wrong and not changing until you corrected it, and her exclamatory remarks of YES when it was done correctly and NO when it wasn’t.
When Ann wasn’t teaching, playing piano or attending church she was often found doing word puzzles, watching sports of any kind (and excessively yelling at the teams if they weren’t doing well), visiting her good friends, eating at restaurants, correcting newspapers for grammatical errors, and travelling. She had a zest for life and travel when she was able. Pat and Ann made many trips to sporting events including Notre Dame Football, University of Washington Football, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Supersonics, University of Montana sporting events, local sporting events and their favorite of all Montana All State Wrestling in Billings. Alongside Ann for 12 years was her beloved dog Stella. Stella was Ann’s best friend and often acted like her as well. Ann enjoyed taking Stella to the groomers, feeding her copious amounts of dog snacks and visiting her. Up until the day Stella passed, they were an inseparable and often humorous duo.
Lastly, Ann absolutely loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was extremely proud to be a grandma and it was something that she did very well; possibly the best around. She loved watching them grow up and opened her home to them whenever they wanted to come or whenever they tried to run away from home. She made sure to travel to their games across the state, attend graduations and of course she loved shopping for them. Each grandchild was loved and adored as they were, she never compromised her love for them and was always forgiving. As for her growing brood of great-grandchildren, they could do absolutely no wrong in her eye. She was very excited to be welcoming two more in 2017.
Ann was a one of a kind personality. She had a great sense of humor, undying loyalty, strong will and determination and most importantly she was unapologetic of who she was. In a world where conformity is expected she never bent to the expectations of others. She never lied to you, if she was pleased you knew and if she wasn’t pleased with you, you definitely knew. Ann also understood grief and heartache and was great at consoling people at funerals, feeds, and ceremonies. She made sure to always bring large amounts of food, a big hug, a joke or two and a big smile. She understood and respected the Assiniboine and Sioux cultures and was embraced by hundreds of families on the reservation, to which she resided, for her respect and participation in these practices.
Ann is survived by her husband Patrick O’Brien; daughters Shannon (Jim) Murphy of St. Ignatius, Maureen O’Brien of Bothell, WA, Colleen O’Brien of Missoula, and Patti Jo (Dusty) Black of Wolf Point, MT; Grandchildren Michael O’Brien, Jerome (Colleen) O’Brien, Mandy (Scott) Berens, Ryan (Ashley) O’Brien, Adriann (Griffin), Kaileen (James) Stovern, and Mattie McChesney; Adopted grandson Frank “Bosh” Gourneau III; Great-Grandchildren Dylan, Alliana, JJ, Jose, Kaniel, Kai, Valentina, Grady, Craig, Cailey, Nevina, Baby Stovern and Baby Berens; Brother Gerald (Jane) Jimeno of Libby, MT; Sisters Gladys “Toots” Jimeno of Spokane, WA, Carol Jimeno of Bellingham, WA and Cheri (Tom Yahraes) Jimeno of Nine Mile Falls, WA; Brother-In-Law Raymond (Saralou) O’Brien; Sister-in-Law Patricia O’Brien; Uncle Orphus Buhl of Wardner, ID; Close friends George Sanders, Mary Thorton, Sally George Wright and Elouise Smith; numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. We apologize for those way may have failed to mention.
She is preceded in death by her parents Max and Gladys Jimeno; Brother Max. Jr; Maternal Grandparents Fred and May Alice Buhl; Paternal Grandparents Flabino and Maria Charita Jimeno; mother and father in law Raymond Sr. and Amy O’Brien; Sibling-In-Laws Mary Ann Driemeyer, Irene and Don Linthicum, Lorraine and Bill Gaitlin, and Stephen O’Brien; Nephew Terry Smith; Nieces Amy Lou Linthicum and Sherry O’Brien; Great-Nephew Landon Park; and Great-Nieces Annette Linthicum and Chelsea Marchwick.
A rosary will be held on Friday January 20 at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Poplar at 7PM and full funeral mass will be held January 21st at the church at 11 with a burial to follow at the Poplar Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the local catholic parishes or donation to Patrick O’Brien for the 2017 Ann O’Brien Music Scholarship for Poplar Schools.
Though she was small, she truly was a large in mighty and strength. She hoped to leave a legacy in which people will recall her fondly, and after the extreme outpouring of memories and love, we know that she has. She is an irreplaceable human being, truly one of a kind. We are so thankful that she made her way to the little corner of Montana to build our family, alongside Patrick. Though we could have used more time, the faith she shared assures us one day we will see her beautiful smile and hear her big laugh again.
Service Schedule
Rosary
7:00 p.m.
Friday January 20, 2017
Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church
105 F Street West
Poplar, Montana 59255
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 a.m.
Saturday January 21, 2017
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church
105 F Street West
Poplar, Montana 59255
Service Schedule
Rosary
7:00 p.m.
Friday January 20, 2017
Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church
105 F Street West
Poplar, Montana 59255
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 a.m.
Saturday January 21, 2017
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church
105 F Street West
Poplar, Montana 59255
Noreen and Dan Hohman says
What a beautiful soul Ann was so good to all the kids she will be missed
Pr. Christine Holler-Dinsmore says
Deepest sympathy to Ann’s family.
Ann was a small dynamo. Her passionate love for people was so evident in her music and conversation. I always felt lifted up after being with her. We keep you in prayer, and may the your faith in the resurrection and love of Jesus Christ give you strength and healing as well as the prayers and love of family and friends.
Prs. Chris and Greg Holler-Dinsmore
Bob and Terry McAnally says
Our hearts go out to Ann’s family for their loss. May the Creator wrap loving arms around you all during this time of grieving.
Dodi Bernard says
Thoughts and prayers for Ann’s family during this difficult time. She and I had lunch after my mom had passed away. Ann’s words were so comforting to me.. Rest in Peace Ann.
David and Chong Ae Boyd says
Our prayers are with all of you
Vera Tonjum says
Pat I’m so very sorry to hear of Ann’s passing, she will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dohn Ratliff says
Ann made a big difference in my life as a young music teacher in Poplar. She really had a passion for music and for sharing it with others. God bless you Ann!
Julie Nelsen says
So sorry for your loss Ann was an amazing person and a mentor for all new teachers
Kelly says
What a beautiful soul. You will be missed dearly.
Roxanne Bunting says
I will miss you. Say hi to my mom for me. She just turned 77 on the tenth. You were a great inspiration to me. Everytime I saw you…it would make myday.RIP
Patch Family says
The singing and piano will be much improved in Heaven Her voice and laugh will melt the hardest heart. Sing on on dear friend.
Donald Lee Boyd says
Mrs.Ann O’Brien Was A Great Piano Player For Anyone And Good Elder Friend R.I.P. My Adopted Grandma…
Dreamis Eagle Boy says
I’m so Sorry to hear of Mrs. Ann O’Brien’s passing. My Prayers are with you all at this time…
Shari Daniels and family says
Prayers and my sincere condolences to your family. Mrs O’Brien was our music teacher and sub from time to time.
Veda Azure (LaRoche) says
Prayers and my condolences to Pat and the family, Ann was such a sweet person
Karla DuBoise says
Condolences to the family, Ms O’Brien was my music teacher and she was my son Oliver music teacher. Been with the Poplar Schools many yrs. RIP, sure going 2 b missed.
Martha Cody Burns says
She touched many hearts through many years, mine included. May she rest in peace. May sweet memories surround you and carry you through your sadness.
Roxann Smith says
We all loved Ann. I recall one year we offered a Dakota Hymn class at the college, we needed a pianist, she was the first person everyone thought about. We performed at the nursing homes and had a “small” concert. We all wore red tops and of course black pants. I was honored to have known her. Prayers for the family and grandchildren especially, because grandmas are so special. She always bragged about her grandkids!
Gay & Brian Pennington says
Ann was a very special lady. All three of my boys had her in music. I enjoy going on the road trips with the band & Music . The kids all respect her and she played the piano wonderful. Everyone will miss her and her wonderful music. My deepest Sympathy to the Pat & the family . My prayers to each of you.
M Thornton says
Our loss is heavens gain
Penny Kaleva says
Thanks for the music over my years of teaching. You had a lot of heart and give it to our school. You will be missed. God Bless You!
Cindy Alpert says
Pat and the O’Brien family, I have lots of memories of Ann; eating at the Buck Horn, trips to Williston, rides in the country and many school events however the ones I hold most special were hearing her play the piano late in the evenings when I lived in your upstairs apartment. Many nights I was lulled to sleep by her special gift of music. I pray for God’s blessing to you all.
Roxane Beauclair Salonen says
Who can forget that big smile and booming laugh? It is forever affixed. What a special lady! Prayers for you all. I wish I could be there to help usher her into God’s arms but you are all in my deepest prayers and thoughts. XOXO
Maureen Carroll-Halpin says
Please accept my deepest condolence to the O’Brien family. Ann was a special person. She loved her family, her friends, her community, and loved the Lord. She had a strong faith in the Lord. She shared her special talent of music with us. A song she played for me when I had a tough day was: On Eagles Wings. She was always there for myself and my son, John. Pat and Ann were his adopted grandparents. She could talk you into joining a committee or a project. I loved going somewhere with her. She loved sports! She was quite a cheerleader from the stands. Sometimes I would go over to the O”brien home and watch baseball with her. I’m blessed to have know her. Heaven has gained an Angel. God bless you all.
Ramey Growing Thunder says
Our condolences to the family of Ann! I was very thankful she selected me for the late Lori Jo Grey Bear athletic scholarship when I graduated from Poplar High School! Fly high Ann………
Julia B Mitchell-Ricker says
Condolences to your family,I know she was well known & loved in our little town,I always remember her as a kid in Church playing the organ in her little spot and singing away. Blessing and Prayers to all who knew and loved her. Julia Ricker & Family.
maryann spottedwolf says
RIP Ann…. Fly high Ann your a beautiful Angel…. Prayers to you family…Going to miss your beautiful smile and your awesum Music… maryann wetsit and Katie Dolly stark>>>
Al Bets His Medicine says
The World has lost a remarkable woman. Her music will always be cherished and remembered. Fly with the angels Ann. My prayers and thoughts to the family.
Steven Holte says
Thanks for the gift of music you shared with so many of us.
LaVerne Gibbs says
Her Beautiful” Tickling of The Ivories ”
Will Be Greatly Missed.
Billie Jean McClammy-Norgaard says
Too many memories to write in this message. Anne was like a second mother to me. She became a fixture at the Poplar Schools. She has seen hundreds, possibly thousands of students pass through that place. I will miss her bright eyes and brilliant smile. My condolences to her husband, Pat, my classmate, Shannon, and the entire extended family of Anne and Pat.
Levi and Margaret Olson says
Your beautiful smile and loving kindness will be surely missed. Your support to many who have lost loved ones will always be remembered. Thanks for always being there for the people.
Jim and Joanne Moore says
So, so wonderful to read all the wonderful comments from the many friends in the community where Ann and Pt lived. We were privileged to meet Ann and Pat when Maureen came to Gonzaga for college and our daughter, Mary Kaye, became her roommate. We all became instant friends and our friendship grew over all the years, and Maureen (Mo) became our 3rd daughter, with Ann and Pat’s blessing. We are so saddened by her passing, but do send all our love and prayers to Pat and all the family and friends who loved this very special lady. Jim and Joanne Moore and her ‘family’ in Washinton State.
Bettie Szymanski says
I will miss Ann very much. My prayers are with Pat and family during your lost. I can see Ann playing and singing up in heaven. To a friend that I could talk to when I needed to talk, you will be missed greatly.RIP
Vernie says
Patti Jo and family, I am so sorry for your loss. God’s grace.
Michele Cantrell-Standing Rock says
I just wanted to express my deepest condolences to Mrs. O’brien’s family and friends. I had the pleasure of knowing her through out my years of attending Poplar Schools. She was always a pleasure to be around, took no nonsense and I looked forward to her knowledgeable musical talent every time. My prayers to her family during this very sad time.
Greg Sundberg says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this tough time.
Dale and Carmen Lane says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at this time
Georgianna Thompson Old ELk says
Condolences to the O’Brien Family. When Ms. Ann Jimeno came to Poplar she was my 6th grade teacher! I was so proud. She was the greatest student advocate at PHS! As the years passed, and our paths crossed, she was always checking to see how I was doing. One never finds someone as sincere as she was, To her- “the sky was the limit!” She will always be the beautiful Ann, who unselfishly gave of herself to help anyone in need. The Creator called home a beautiful person.
Laurie Shafer says
You will be deeply missed Ann and when our birthday rolls around every year I will always think about and wish you a Happy Birthday like we have done for years. My deepest condolences to the family.
Darlyn Grainger says
My condolences to the family. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. God Bless You
Kevin Buckles says
To Pat and all the family, I want to extend all my sympathies, When Adriann called me and let me know of Ann’s passing, It brought a profound sense of loss. I had the pleasure of knowing Ann all my life, but for 18 years I had the unique pleasure of calling her my mother in law. Ann and Pat were truly an example of true love, with church and family the foundation of their lives, they always made the holidays especially Christmas memorable. We lost an amazing lady, but her legacy of Faith,love and community will live thru all that were blessed to have known her. She now walks in paradise free of pain and heaven has truly gained an angel.. God Bless Pat and all the family.
Sherry Lindley says
Ann and Pat opened up their home to me many times while I was attending PHS and I cherish all the wonderful memories there while growing up with Maureen, Shannon, Colleen and Patti Jo. My heart goes out to all of you and I’m sorry for your loss.
Helen Bighorn says
To Ann’s Family,
Thank you for sharing Ann with us here in the communities and she will be missed greatly. Blessing to you all.
Christopher Bengochea says
The remarkable work woman that she was, is, and ever shall be gives is all hope for great life. I knew Ann for many years; now as a professional opera singer I miss her even more. God Bless Pat, and the whole family of O’brien’s!
Deona, Josh, Khloe says
She was the best teacher I had. I know I tried to be bad, she always sat me down and had a little talk with me. Asked me what was bothering me. She fully understood what I was going through. She’s going to be greatly missed. Fly high. Condolences to the family.
Gail Green says
I am sad to hear of Ann’s passing. Many hours were shared in music for church in Wolf Point. Ann was so fun! Her voice, piano playing, humor and bright eyes will be remembered. We will see her again. I send my condolences to all her family and friends.