Mary Anna “Ann” Schreit, 94, of Cape Girardeau, formerly of Cool Valley, Missouri, peacefully entered eternal rest Thursday, July 13, 2017, at Auburn Creek Assisted Living.

Ann was born April 18, 1923, in Ilasco, Missouri, to the late Ipas and Johanna Apostol. She married Mathew William Schreit on April 1, 1945, and he preceded her in death Sept. 5, 1990.

Annie, as she was sometimes adoringly referred to, had a remarkable life. The daughter of Romanian immigrant parents, who found their way to Hannibal (Ilasco), Missouri, to forge their American dream. Annie was the fifth child, and second daughter of six children. Annie never did anything ordinary; whatever she undertook was extraordinary. She traveled the world gathering friends she would cherish forever.

Her talents were many. Her family and friends will miss her cakes, especially bunny cakes at Easter and her special birthday cakes; pigs-in-the-blanket (that will never, ever taste the same); and, oh, those cut-out Christmas cookies baked to perfection. And we can’t forget “Santa Anna.” Every Christmas she dressed up as Santa to bring cheer to her family. Her great-granddaughter, Olivia, age 8, has chosen to carry that tradition on, starting in 2017. Olivia, Nan will be so happy!

Annie had a gift for making people feel special. Her kindness and generosity were always present in whatever she did. Her glass was always full and she always saw the best in people.

Annie was fortunate to find great love with her husband of 45 years, Mathew. When their only daughter, Janey, came into their lives, they became a terrific trio. Ann’s love grew as Janey’s family grew. Jerry became Jane’s husband and the son-in-law who could do no wrong in her eyes. Matthew, her first grandchild, was born on Ann’s birthday. Adam, her second grandson, came six and a half years later. They are pals forever. Nan, as they called her, was always great fun. She made everything super cool. When the family left their Nan to go home, both boys cried almost to Perryville from St. Louis. They just didn’t want to leave their Nan and Gramps.

Annie loved to plan and give parties. In her eyes, parties were special and so were people, so they went together. She could make anything happen if she deemed it to be. There was never an obstacle too big she couldn’t find a solution or a way to get it done. Her drive and determination is a memory her family will remember always.

She is survived by a daughter, Jane (Jerry) Cox of Cape Girardeau; two grandsons, Matthew D. (Elizabeth) Cox and Adam M. (Kelly) Cox, both of Scott City; and five great-grandchildren, Hunter A. Cox, Braden L. Cox, Olivia K. Cox, Estella J. Cox and Connor Earnest. She also is survived by two nieces, Shelly (John) Hopkins of Springfield, Missouri, and Deborah Jan Apostol of Springfield; and a nephew, Edgar L. (Shirley) Schreit of Sullivan, Missouri.

She also was preceded in death by four brothers, Epas, George, Carl and Joseph Apostol; a sister, Sylvia M. Harlow; a granddaughter, Joanna Marie Cox; and a nephew, Richard J. Schreit.

Friends may call after 1 p.m. Tuesday at Saverton-Ilasco United Methodist Church in Hannibal.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the church, with Rodger Rice officiating. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Hannibal.

For the last three years, Anna resided at Auburn Creek Assisted Living, where she was lovingly cared for by the entire staff, director of nursing Rhonda Gray and administrators. We are so grateful to all of you. In addition, the family would like to thank for their extra care Marian Nelson, Skyler Allen, Andrea Gray, Peninnah Nelson, Deandrea Nelson, Cassandra Nelson, Lisa Housman, Jessica Robinson and Ronda Roberts. Anna’s angels on earth

Annie loved her Romanian roots, so the family asks, in lieu flowers, donations be made to the Ilasco Historical Society, c/o David Polc, 64 Pioneer Circle, Hannibal, MO 63401.

Online condolences may be made at www.amick-burnettfuneralchapels.com.