Anne Elizabeth Duncker (nee Lynn) passed peacefully in her sleep on October 31st, 2026, at the age of 97. Born in London in 1929, she grew up in the city’s East End, until the outbreak of World War II, when she and her sister Theresa were evacuated to the British countryside; many adventures ensued! Post war, Anne returned to London, eventually studying translation at the University of London (Birbeck College), Sorbonne University in Paris, and McGill University in Montreal, for which she was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for first place in her class, and a French Government Medal for placing first in the final exam of the Montreal Translator’s Society. Anne had a successful career as a translator, working for such diverse organizations as NATO headquarters, in Paris at the time (translating top secret documents), as well as both Shell Oil and the Mercantile Bank in Montreal. Her passion for the craft followed her throughout her life, continuing as a freelance translator well into her 70s. Anne met Hans Duncker (1930-2023) while working in Montreal, they were married in 1964 and after briefly relocating to Brussels (Belgium), they eventually settled in Ottawa to raise their three children… and many, many cats.

Anne was an avid bridge player, a fierce scrabble opponent, an enthusiastic theatregoer and loyal devotee to the Globe and Mail Sunday crossword. She enjoyed the company of her “bridge ladies”, a good cup of tea, and hosting Sunday dinner… her roast beef and Yorkshire pudding were the stuff of legend. She was a very active volunteer for such organizations as the Shepherds of Good Hope and the National Gallery of Canada.

Anne is survived by her three children: Bernard, Anthony (Minka) and Stephanie (Steve), as well as her grandchildren Leila, Ava and Isabella. Special thanks go to the nursing staff of Amica Westboro Park… they became a wonderful second family to her in her later years.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring/Summer of 2027. Anne never liked the cold.