Obituary of Ann Elizabeth Bongard

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Ann Elizabeth Bongard announces her sudden passing at her home in Lincoln, New Brunswick, on May 28, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on May 1, 1959, Ann lived life on her own terms — fiercely independent, hardworking, compassionate, and deeply loyal to the people she loved.

She spent many dedicated years working at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in housekeeping and as a sterile processing technician. She later worked in the residence buildings at St. Thomas University, before beginning her role at CFB Gagetown, where she remained until retirement. No matter where she worked, Ann was known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to help others.

In her younger years, Ann loved skiing and skiddooing, but hunting quickly became one of her greatest passions. At just 14 years old, she and her sister Janie took their hunter safety course together as the only two girls in the class — and Ann was proudly the sharpest shooter out of everyone there. From that moment on, the woods became amongst her happiest places. There was not a partridge in the woods that did not fear Ann Bongard, and over the years she also enjoyed many successful deer and moose hunts.

Though small in stature, Ann was mighty in spirit. She fiercely protected the people she loved, especially her little sister Janie; whether it was saving a brand-new coat during a hockey rink brawl at their little brother Mitchell’s game at the Fredericton Coliseum or making sure they all got home safely from parties years later. If Ann loved you, there was no length she would not go to in order to help you, support you, or make sure you had what you needed.

As a teenager, Ann was the devout leader of the ‘Springhill Girls”, the original six being Ann, Janie, Mary-Beth, Susan, Debbie, and Elizabeth. Their adventures were endless - and occasionally dangerous - but as their fearless leader, Ann always got them all home safe… from all but the repercussions from their parents. 

Ann loved the outdoors and was happiest on a frosty morning sitting quietly in her deer stand or walking the woods looking for partridge. She was an avid fisherwoman; she and Gloria took many trips to Gordonville. She loved four-wheeling, snowmobiling, and heading out on her side-by-side.  She never shied away from hard work, whether splitting wood or keeping up the yard that she and Gloria lovingly cared for together, with Gloria (of course) tending the flowers that made their home so beautiful.

She loved sharing hunting stories, laughs, and cold beers with friends and family at Gloria’s camp, or anywhere for that matter. The only thing she may have loved more than the outdoors, and her friends and family, was her pets. Over the years, there were many; there were dogs, there were cats, there were birds. Ann loved them all fiercely and shared a special bond with every furry or feathered friend she made.  

Ann is survived by her longtime roommate and best friend, Gloria Brown; her sister, Heather ‘Janie’ Bongard-Christie (Kim); brother, Mitchell Bongard (Gail); nephews, Kyle Kish and Nicholas Bongard; nieces, Rachel Kish and Julie Bongard; godson, Shawn Paul; Bob Kish;  and many extended family members, including Carol Brown, John Brown, Joyce Aubin, Jody English, and Terri Paul; as well as her beloved great-nieces and great-nephew, Hailey Kish-Atwin, Olivia Kish-Atwin, and Benson Paul. She also leaves behind many special friends and chosen family members, who loved her dearly. In addition to her parents, ‘Mac’ Benson and Frances Elizabeth (Wetmore) Bongard, she was predeceased by brother, Lyle Bongard.

Those who knew Ann will remember her as caring, sympathetic, understanding, and fiercely devoted to the people in her life. Her strength, humour, loyalty, and love for the outdoors will never be forgotten.

In keeping with Ann’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. A graveside service will be held for family and friends at the Fredericton Rural Cemetery on Wednesday June 3rd, 2026 at 2:00pm. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, your local SPCA, or a charity of the donor’s choice.