A Celebration of Life for 67-year old Ruth Anne Smathers of Lost Springs, Wyo, will take place Friday, April 1, 2022 at 2 p.m. in Douglas, WY, at the American Legion.
A gathering of friends and family will be held immediately following at the same location.
The daughter of Ruth (Grant) and Tom Mitchell, Ruth Anne was born May 5th, 1954. Our mother, grandmother and loving friend to all passed away on Friday, March 25, 2022 in an auto accident taking her best horses and dogs with her.
Anne was a fourth-generation rancher raised in the Harney Hills, where her love for animals was firmly established. In August of 1971, she married Jim Bartschi. This marriage was blessed with Anne’s only two children, Gynette and Toby.
Anne was a proud member of the Pony Express for over 25 years. She loved to share stories of her many rides and always got a reaction when she shared her adventures of sale barns, ranching, hunting, and time spent with those she loved.
Anne was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her brother John Mitchell; Daughter Gynette King of Douglas; grandchildren Melissa King and Samuel Mittleider; son Toby Bartschi (Kit) of Lusk, WY. grandchildren Derick Young (Brittany), Bryan Bartschi (Annahlisse), and Shelby Bartschi; great-grandchildren: Airelynn, Jackson, Michael, and Wacey.
You were a great friend with a big heart that would anything for anyone.. we met in the late 80’s and stayed the best of friends for all these years.. I have a lot of great memories with you that I will always cherish.. I am now left with a hole in my heart now that you are gone..thank you for being such a good friend Annie..
Your friend now and forever,
Sharon Jenkins