The world lost a class act. Anne Flick Steinbeck passed on May 22. She was born Oct. 20, 1929, to Margaret and Raleigh Flick, a pioneer family in Gunnison, Colorado. She spent the next 91 years in Gunnison, marrying, working, raising a daughter, helping others and traveling the world. In December 2020, Anne moved to Helena, Montana to be closer to family.
Although Anne achieved much in her life, she is best remembered by those who knew her for her kindness and generosity to others, as well as her extraordinary wit, which was both razor keen and never mean nor cruel. Anyone who spent time with her received a heartfelt compliment, and she always brightened or eased their day. Anne’s laughter and smile were infectious, her poise pristine, her sense of fashion and decor striking, elegant and stately. She was a talented cook, a gracious and welcoming hostess and a true and abiding friend. She was humble, intelligent, incredibly wise and always seemed to have the right words for every occasion.
In high school, Anne was the state Latin co-champion and was awarded a scholarship to attend any state college in Colorado. She remained in Gunnison, worked as a waitress to supplement her scholarship and graduated from Western State College (now Western Colorado University). Anne was voted Miss Western State and was designated Miss Scholarship for her academic achievement.
After graduation, Anne married Archie Steinbeck. They had one child and celebrated nearly 70 years of marriage before Archie’s death in 2004.
Anne worked in various professional capacities in Gunnison and its surrounding area. She was one of two teachers for several grades of the children of miners working in Whitepine, Colorado, and later she worked at the local Gunnison newspaper — the Gunnison News Champion. In 1962 she was hired to be the Gunnison County welfare director and later became Hinsdale County welfare director as well. She retired after working as director for over 39 years, receiving a large stained-glass window inscribed by the county commissions with the words: “Anne Steinbeck, a class act. Thank you for your years of service to the citizens of Gunnison and Hinsdale Counties.”
Anne inspired and assisted many single mothers who came to the welfare office, encouraging and supporting them in furthering their education. She found homes for numerous foster children and adoptees. She kept a photo album filled with pictures of the children she placed, and it was stuffed with thankful letters from adoring parents. She was so effective in facilitating successful adoptions that the Colorado Department of Human Services asked her to teach others in her field how to prepare for, conduct, evaluate and write adoption studies.
Anne was a mover and shaker. She played a key role in founding many organizations and services that made life better for those who were disadvantaged or unable to advocate for themselves. In Gunnison, she helped establish the first mental health clinic, the nursing home (now the Senior Care Center), the Jubilee House for victims of domestic violence, the first food bank, the Tenderfoot Childcare Center, the Ladies Night Out fundraiser and the Gunnison Community Foundation. She was an active member of Eastern Star, Daughters of the American Revolution, P.O.E, Elks Ladies and local bridge clubs.
Anne was baptized in the Community Church at an early age and continued as a member of its congregation. She sang in the church choir for over 30 years and stepped in for the pastor when he was on vacation.
Anne was appointed by four Colorado governors to various boards and commissions. One of her favorites was the board of trustees governing body of four-year Colorado colleges. She served several terms on the board, including two as chairman.
Anne was a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Federation (BPW). She was Colorado BPW state president 1976-77 and the first Coloradoan to be elected national BPW president in 1985-86. She lobbied for the equal rights amendment and supported parity in wage rates and access to credit for women. In her role as national president, she traveled to most of the U.S. states and later as an international representative she visited New Zealand and Australia. She was the U.S. representative to the International Women’s Conference in Ghana, Africa. In recognition of her many local, state and national accomplishments, she was inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame, one of her most cherished achievements.
Another of Anne’s gifts was her beautiful soprano voice. She was regularly asked to sing at weddings, Memorial Day services and funerals, or simply to show her talent to the enjoyment of any nearby. People who met her after she moved to Helena thought she must have been a professional singer.
Anne’s four years in Helena were happy ones — especially for her family, who enjoyed her stories, cheerfulness and wit. Her family is extremely grateful for the care provided by Marie Lavinder, which allowed Anne to live independently in her own apartment. Anne had a special friendship with Stephen Keim and adored visits with his family — particularly the great grandchildren.
Anne was preceded in death by her husband Archie, her parents Margaret and Raleigh, and her siblings — Raleigh Jr., Roberta, Carroll, John and Ben. She is survived by daughter Lois Steinbeck, grandson Jake Bohyer, nephews, nieces and grandnephews and grandnieces.
A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 6 at 11 a.m. at the Western Colorado University ballroom. A buffet lunch will be served after the service. Memorials can be made to the Anne Flick Steinbeck Scholarship or a charity of your choosing. To give to the Anne Flick Steinbeck Scholarship at Western Colorado University, visit tinyurl.com/Steinbeck-Scholarship or mail contributions to WCU Foundation, PO Box 1264, Gunnison, CO 81230.
Anne was an amazing mom, grandmother, aunt and friend. She is greatly missed. She left her mark on this world, and it was one etched in kindness, generosity, laughter, sincerity and service for others, especially those who needed help.
