Ann C. Mullinix

Ann C. Mullinix of Wakonda, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024, at the Wakonda Heritage Home at the age of 103.

Ann, daughter of Harry and Hattie Sinning, was born on December 28, 1920. She grew up in Canton, SD, with her brother Jens and sister Patty. Ann graduated from Canton High School in 1939.

Ann’s career began with owning and operating a café in Chamberlain, SD, where she developed a love for baking and preparing meals for her family. She later enrolled in cosmetology school in Sioux Falls, SD, and became a licensed beautician. In 1961, she opened "Pretti Beauty Salon" in Wakonda and worked diligently to support her family as a single mother.

Ann retired in 1987 and embraced a life filled with creativity and community. She volunteered as a storytime reader in Vermillion, SD, and later moved to Beresford, SD, where she became known for her baking and painting talents. Inspired by her friend Christine, Ann discovered a passion for painting, winning awards for her work and finding joy in her artistic pursuits. One of her favorite pastimes was playing Bingo across southeast South Dakota. She also loved card games, especially Pinochle, where her competitive streak kept everyone on their toes and laughing.

Ann moved to Wakonda Heritage Home, where she was affectionately called “Annie” by friends and staff.

 Her legacy of love, hard work, and creativity lives on in her family and the memories they shared.

Ann is survived by her children: Tarz (Donita) Mullinix of Beresford, SD; Tracey (Lisa) Mullinix of Noblesville, IN; Torrey (Ginger) Mullinix of Wakonda, SD; and Terri (Larry) Roan of Sioux City, IA. and her grandchildren: Aaron (Cindy) Mullinix of Beresford, SD, Angie (Tony) Ruiter of Sioux Falls, SD, Arica (Mark) Nickles of Yankton, SD., Al (Crissy) Mullinix of Beresford, SD., Nick Mullinix of Wakonda, SD., Beth (Gordon) Kopecky of Aberdeen, SD. , Josh Mullinix of Sioux City, IA, Justin Mullinix of Sioux City, IA, Maggie (Josh) Elgert, and Tom (Magda Martinez) Miller; twenty-two great grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, her sister, one son, Tam, and one daughter-in-law, JoAnn.