Anne Grutza

Anne Lehr, born on August 23, 1953, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on January 25th,2025. Anne’s life was defined by her boundless generosity, unwavering principles, and a knack for living unapologetically.

Born to Agnes and Raymond Lehr, Anne was the third of their ten children. She was proceeded in death by her parents, her sister Mary Busenbark, and her brother Michael Lehr. She is survived by her siblings: Rita Lehr, Paul Lehr, Judy Lehr, Joan Garza, Nancy Lehr, Lisa Frank, and Jane Novak.

Anne was the proud mother of four children: Sarah Grutza, Carolyn Landolt (George), Elizabeth Grutza (Brian) and Joey Grutza (Chelsea). Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to her five grandchildren: Charlotte, Griffin, and Olivia Landolt, and Eleanor and Henry Novak, who brought her endless pride and happiness.

Anne was one of a kind. She was passionate about her family, her work, and her deeply held beliefs. She loved her job, so much so that every password she ever had was some variation of  0241- her work code. But outside of work, she was a fierce defender of the labor movement and the workers it protected.  If you dared cross a picket line in her presence, you’d learn the true meaning of regret.

Anne’s passion and hard work ethic were cornerstones of her life, and she instilled those same values into her children. She taught them the importance of sticking up for themselves and others, of doing what’s right even when it’s hard, and of never backing down from their beliefs. These were some of the greatest lessons she passed on: stand tall, work hard, and fight for what matters. Anne didn’t just live by these principles; she ensured her children carried them forward, leaving behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and resilience.

She loved her family, her friends and her music (everything from Pearl Jam and Pink Floyd to Korn and Rage Against the Machine), and, of course, her "doobies." 

Anne was not just an incredible mother and grandmother, but also an extraordinary aunt to her many nieces and nephews, whom she loved as if they were her own. Anne had a unique way of making each one feel special, and she never forgot a birthday.

Anne was generous to a fault, always giving more than she received. She never arrived empty-handed—whether it was her signature pasta salad, a pan of brownies, or a box or two or three of wine. 

Even in her final days, Anne remained selfless and strong, giving her family and friends the precious gift of time to say their goodbyes. She was loved by all who knew her and will be remembered as a Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and friend who lived life on her own terms—with integrity, humor, and a heart of gold.

Anne’s spirit, love, and laughter will live on in all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Anne—you’ve earned it.

In lieu of flowers, please join us for a walk in Anne’s honor or make a donation to the Anne's Fans Team.