The city of Windsor is mourning the loss of a dedicated philanthropist and community leader, Anne Winterbottom, whose profound impact on the city's cultural and civic institutions will be her lasting legacy. Described by her family as a 'bittersweet ending to a long, well-lived life,' Winterbottom passed away on December 29, 2025, from complications following surgery.
A Life Defined by Service and Compassion
In a heartfelt social media post, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens expressed the community's deep sense of loss, calling Winterbottom a 'true community champion' who devoted her life to giving back. 'Her lasting legacy of service and compassion will not be forgotten,' Dilkens stated, capturing the sentiment of many who knew her work.
Anne Winterbottom's philosophy was rooted in a deep belief in contributing to her city, its institutions, and its people. Her obituary notes that a great source of her happiness was her family, and she possessed an appreciation for art, fashion, travel, literature, and her many friends.
Pillars of Windsor's Civic and Cultural Life
Together with her late husband, Clare Winterbottom, who died in 2018, Anne was a foundational supporter of the Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) from its earliest days. She remained a constant and familiar presence at festival events, attending screenings as recently as the fall of 2025.
Her leadership extended far beyond the arts. Winterbottom's remarkable volunteer resume included serving as:
- Chair of the Windsor Regional Hospital Foundation.
- Chair of the University of Windsor board of governors.
- Co-chair of major fundraising campaigns like the Negev Dinner and Together in Caring initiatives.
The family highlighted that their philanthropic efforts were broadly focused on education, healthcare, and the arts, marking them as prominent business and community leaders.
Accolades and a Lasting Legacy
A proud alumna, Winterbottom earned a sociology degree from the University of Windsor and was the first recipient of its women's studies certificate. Her decades of service were recognized with numerous honours, including:
The Canada 125 Medal, the Charles Clark Award, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Windsor and District Chamber of Commerce, and the distinction of honorary sponsor of the HMCS Windsor submarine.
She was also an honorary Rotarian and Big Sister, a member of the Knights Templar, and a former representative to the Commission on the Status of Women.
Anne Winterbottom is survived by her three daughters, Carla, Lizabeth, and Martha; five grandchildren; her sister, Susie Korchank; and extended family. The family has expressed gratitude to her longtime friends, caregivers, and staff at Lifetimes. Details for a celebration of life, planned for the spring, will be announced at a later date.
