Ann LaRee Kirchner of Austin, Minnesota, peacefully passed away at home Monday, Nov. 23, 2015.

She was born in Austin on Sept. 17, 1937, the daughter of Durwood and Hulda (Long) Bardouche.

On July 15, 1957, she was united in marriage to Lester Kirchner in Brownsdale, Minnesota. The couple had work-related relocations several times through the years within Southern Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska before retiring back to Austin in 1996.

Ann was employed before marriage at the Hormel Offices and later in administration at Austin High School, private dentistry offices, and the Nebraska Natural Resources Department.

She was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin.

Bird watching and puzzles were favorites of Ann in her free time as well as being a fan of professional football and baseball. She was a longtime fan of Marilyn Monroe. Ann had a special fondness for her “grand-dogs” Tucker and Max.

Survivors include her husband and best friend Les; one son, Todd (Teresa) Kirchner of Kearney, Nebraska; daughters: Marilee (Jeff) Haiston of Ft. Collins, Colorado, and Joni Kirchner of Norfolk, Nebraska. Ann was proud of her six grandsons and eight great-grandchildren, and anxious to welcome the ninth in a few months.

She is preceded in death by her parents and in-laws.

Memorials can be made in honor of Ann to the American Lung Association. Ann’s wishes were to be cremated. Visitors and well-wishers will be welcome one hour prior to the memorial service. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015, at Mayer Funeral Home in Austin. Honorary bearers are her grandsons, Bart and Jack Haiston, Tyler, Tanner, Trevor and Travis Kirchner.

Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota. Mayer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online Condolences: www.mayerfh.com.