In Memoriam:
Ann Margaret Valentin

Ann Margaret Valentin

Ann Margaret Valentin, born in Newton, Massachusetts, peacefully passed away in her home earlier this year.

In 1961 Ann moved to San Francisco, finding a small studio at the iconic corner of Haight & Ashbury. While never considering herself a member of counterculture, she fondly recalled encounters with Janis Joplin and Kris Kristofferson. She remained unimpressed by a young Bob Dylan and didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.

Ann married Richard Valentin and raised their children, Lisa and David, in San Francisco and later Vallejo. As a working mom, Ann prioritized her children's education. While she limited TV time, she actively instilled a love for reading and a curiosity about the world. Many afternoons were spent at museums, aquariums, and observatories with her kids.

She was a lifelong advocate for environmental causes. Starting in the late 1960s, Ann dedicated her efforts to promoting green initiatives with Keep Tahoe Blue and, as a long-time supporter of the Sierra Club, was deeply committed to the conservation of the California Sierra Nevada Mountains. Her unwavering concern with climate change and the welfare of our planet remained with her throughout her lifetime. 

Ann's memorial is being held as a private gathering attended by her immediate family. To honor her legacy, we are partnering with The Sugar Pine Foundation. A locally founded and grass roots non-profit, the Sugar Pine Foundation works tirelessly to restore Tahoe’s forests and cultivate a drive toward habitat stewardship.  All donations will be put toward the planting of a memorial grove in her name. If you would like to plant a tree in Annie Margaret’s memory please see the information below.