Ann Lyster, 70, passed away Monday, March 13, 2023 at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. She was born September 26, 1952 in Topeka, Kansas to William P. and Donna Jean (Henry) Trusdale. She grew up in Cozad, Nebraska graduating from Cozad High School in 1970. She then attended Hastings College receiving her BA degree in Education in 1974. While attending college, she met Stephen C. Lyster of Alliance. They were married on June 1, 1973 in Cozad. To this union two children, Tara and Matthew, were born. The family moved to Alliance in 1985 from Ogallala, Nebraska where she had taught at St. Luke’s Elementary School. While in Alliance, Ann taught at Grandview Elementary and later at Emerson Elementary School until her retirement. After her retirement, she continued subbing until limited by her health. She loved teaching and seeing the children succeed.
Ann enjoyed sitting on the deck in the backyard enjoying the sun “reading a book” or sitting around the firepit with the heater going if it was too cold. She could also be found with the swimming ladies at the pool in the summer and going out to eat when it was colder. Her most prized possession was her family. She loved watching sports whether it be the Huskers, high school basketball, freshman volleyball or youth bowling. She took great pride in her granddaughter and spoiling her and was just as excited to welcome her grandson that would have been another joy in her life. She also enjoyed vacationing with family and friends whether it be to Estes Park or Jamaica, always having a great time.
Ann is survived by her husband, Stephen, her daughter Tara and her husband Toby Wright of Rapid City, South Dakota and their daughter, Payton, her son Matthew and his girlfriend Christina of Alliance, Nebraska, and their expected son, and her brother, Scott (Roz) Trusdale of Cozad, Nebraska. She is also survived by Steve’s siblings, Nancy Lyster of Alliance, Nebraska, Mitch (Shari) Lyster of McCook, Nebraska, and Wendy (Greg) Wickard of Bridgeport, Nebraska and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Jean Trusdale and in-laws Keith and Jeri Lyster.
Memorial services will be Thursday, March 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Alliance with the Reverend Sue Spencer officiating. Casual attire is preferred and you’re invited to wear Ann’s favorite color of yellow. Please join us following the ceremony at Skyview Golf Course to celebrate and honor the life of Ann.
In remembrance of Ann’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the family for a memorial to be determined at a later date.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com with Bates-Gould Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.