The community mourns the peaceful passing of Ann Vandersea, a beloved figure whose vibrant spirit and profound dedication left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Ann, 82, transitioned on July 21, 2025, at Vassar Hospital in Poughkeepsie, New York, leaving behind a rich tapestry of cherished memories and significant contributions.
Born on May 8, 1943, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Ann spent her formative years in Leominster, where her remarkable determination and lively personality began to shine. Her early career at Raytheon Technologies in the bustling Boston area not only marked the beginning of her professional journey but also introduced her to John Vandersea, the love of her life, whom she married in 1962. Shortly after, in 1964, Ann settled in Poughkeepsie, New York, after a brief residence in Lewiston, Maine, planting roots in the Hudson Valley community.
Ann’s professional commitment was exemplified by her distinguished 39-year career at Vassar Hospital. She became an indispensable part of the hospital community, known for her steadfastness and compassionate approach, contributing significantly to the institution’s fabric and earning the respect of colleagues and patients alike. Her years at the hospital are a testament to her enduring dedication and the profound impact she had within the healthcare sector of Poughkeepsie NY.
Beyond her professional life, Ann embraced a multitude of passions that enriched her existence. Her love for gardening transformed spaces into stunningly beautiful and expansive havens, reflecting her meticulous care and deep connection to nature. She also found immense joy in line dancing, the captivating allure of Broadway shows, exhilarating skiing adventures, and, most notably, extensive travel, particularly her time living in Paris, where she fully immersed herself in the city’s sophisticated fashion-forward culture, a passion she cultivated throughout her life, always ensuring she looked absolutely fabulous.
Ann’s generous spirit extended into her community contributions, notably through her active involvement in the Vassar Hospital Mother’s Club. For many years, she dedicated her time and energy to various charitable endeavors, exemplifying her commitment to improving the lives of others and fostering a stronger community bond, making her a pillar of local society.
The greatest source of happiness for Ann was undoubtedly her family. Her seven cherished grandchildren brought immense joy and vibrant energy into her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. In 1996, Ann found a second profound love with Rudy Firmbach. Their 29-year partnership was a testament to enduring affection and shared adventure, culminating in their marriage in 2018 and the creation of a loving home in Esopus, New York, where Ann cherished her retirement years surrounded by natural beauty and dear ones.
Ann’s cherished memory is carried on by her loving husband, Rudy Firmbach; her son Jamie Vandersea and his wife Sarah; her daughter Leslee Stolarski and her husband Paul; and her step-son Rudy Firmbach III and his wife Denise. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Erik Stolarski, John Stolarski, Allyson Firmbach, Ryan Firmbach, Jacob Vandersea, Jonah Vandersea, and Jack Vandersea, along with her brother, Thomas Dussault. Ann was predeceased by her first husband, John Vandersea, and her brothers Joseph, Steven, and Robert Dussault, who remain fondly remembered as part of her extended family’s rich history.
The family expresses profound gratitude to the compassionate nurses and doctors in the ICU at Vassar Hospital for their exceptional care during Ann’s final days, underscoring the hospital’s continued legacy of support. Calling hours are scheduled from 10 am to 12 pm, with a service at 11 am on Saturday, August 2nd, at Timothy Doyle Funeral Home in Poughkeepsie, NY, followed by internment at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s name to the Hudson Valley Food Bank or the ASPCA are respectfully requested, honoring her compassionate spirit and commitment to community wellbeing.
Ann Vandersea’s warmth, grace, and loving presence will be profoundly missed by all whose lives she touched. Her enduring legacy of love, beauty, and kindness, alongside her significant life and legacy, will forever resonate, serving as an inspiration for generations to come, truly marking the depth of this Obituary and her incredible life story.
Leave a Reply