Anna-Marie Janzen

Anna-Marie Janzen

Passed on February 2, 2020

It is with profound sadness and a great sense of loss that we share the passing of our daughter, sister, Mom, partner, niece, cousin and friend Anna-Marie Evangoline Borsa Janzen. Anna drew her last breath, surrounded by love, on February 2, 2020. Anna will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her parents Tom and Phyllis Borsa, her brother Tom Borsa, her partner Kim Koswin and her fur baby Towne. Her legacy lives on in her daughter Camryn, whom Anna loved and cherished with her entire being, her heart, and her soul. Anna was born on September 27th, 1975, in Brandon, Manitoba. Subsequently, Neepawa was home for many years and it was there she excelled in school and on several sports teams. Her undeniable athleticism meant she was often chosen to be on a team before the boys were. After completing a Bachelor of Phys Ed at the University of Manitoba (while living in University College and serving as a member of Campus Security), Anna was hired by the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) in 2000 where she proudly served in both front line operations and investigative units for 20 years. In 2004, Anna was part of the National Iron Cops Team, raising money to support the fight against cancer. That same year, she completed the Ironman Triathlon in Penticton B.C., where her team raised in excess of $850,000.00 for cancer research. She worked in two units comprised of both WPS and RCMP members; the Integrated Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit and Project Devote (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women). She was driven to advocate for, and protect, societies most vulnerable citizens. She was equally effective as a member of the Division 16 Crime Unit and the WPS bike unit. In April of 2017 she was promoted to Patrol Sergeant where she worked as a supervisor in Division 12 Community Support Unit. Her career as a police officer offered many opportunities and challenges and she rose to each one. Her colleagues remember her as compassionate, kind, but also tenacious, driven, strong-willed, determined and persistent. The attention to detail found in her reporting set her apart from her peers. Anna loved the City of Boston, her bike, the spirit of competition, a cold Guinness, fresh flowers, pickles, a new bracelet or pair of shoes, hanging out with the girls, and a haircut from Cory. The true meaning of love, however, was defined for her by the arrival of Camryn on November 21st, 2007. From this day on she would say repeatedly it was Camy that made her heart smile. A prairie girl at heart, Anna reveled in time spent under the open skies of Saskatchewan. ‘The farm’ was home to bale tag with the cousins, slopping the pigs, tractor rides in the summer and skidooing in the winter, sleeping in the caboose, picking berries and mushrooms, a table loaded with a Christmas feast, and walking and wandering the fields of her roots. She took great delight in introducing Camryn and then Kim to the home of so many wonderful childhood memories while reliving them in the process. Those who know her well would agree that to be loved by Anna was to have her whole heart. To have her on your side would tip any balance in your favour. In November of 2017, Anna was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. She received this knowledge with a grace and courage that was not only impressive but truly inspiring. To watch her navigate this journey was to see the definition of bravery in action. There was absolutely no room for anything other than hope and optimism even as she knew she was close to arriving at her final destination. The family extends its appreciation to Dr. Kim at Cancer Care Manitoba who helped Anna and her family travel a path filled with twists and turns. Thanks also to Dr. Leyland-Jones at Sioux Falls Medical Centre and Dr. Kabraji at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA. We are also grateful for the support provided by the Winnipeg Police Service. Finally, a heartfelt thanks to the staff of Riverview Health Centre E-Wing who treated Anna with compassion, respect and dignity. We would be remiss not to acknowledge Anna’s wide and extensive group of friends and colleagues who provided constant and never-ending support. Her eclectic ‘tribe’ of women-friends (aka ‘the girls’) has been collectively defined by silliness, laughter, and lots of adventures. To Tara B., Christina, Michelle R., Natasha, Tara C., Caroline, Stacey, Marnie, and Lindsay we thank you for the kindness, compassion, good humour, deep and abiding friendship, and unconditional love you offered Anna. Through good times and bad you’ve had Anna’s back; ‘thank you’ seems too simple a sentiment, but we do thank you deeply from the bottom of our hearts. A celebration of life will be held at Christian Springs Church, 595 Lagimodiere Blvd in Winnipeg at 1:00 pm on Saturday February 8th. Flowers are gratefully declined. A scholarship fund in Anna’s name is being planned with details forthcoming.


Comments

I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that I am thinking of you.


Candace Bennett

Tom and Phyllis and all of your family, our thoughts and hearts go out to you. What a remarkable woman Anna was. With sincere sympathy from Joyce & Murray Foxl


Joyce Fox

My sincerest condolences, heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to Tom and Phyllis and the entire family in this most difficult of times.


Sherri Hawreschuk Andrzejewski

I was very much saddened to learn of your tragic loss. Anna sounds like a an amazing woman. Deepest condolences to your family, Tom, from the Julian Borsa family. Makes me think that she was named after her paternal great grandmother.-another remarkable Borsa lady.


gloria kissack

Our sincere condolences to Tom, Phyllis , Tom and the rest of Anna's family We all have great memories from our Kerr Lake family


The Nebbs families

Anna was always a person who accepted people as they were, and as many people have noted with a BIG open and generous smile. Working in the WPS there was always potential for critics, in and out of the Service and she disregarded negatively and encouraged the positive. She made a positive difference in her work and her daily interactions. My respect and admiration for her increased each time I was fortunate to work with her. I learned a lot from her and I am grateful for that. She is greatly missed.... My sincere condolences Camryn, Kim and her Family!


Bonnie

Our sincerest condolences to Anna's family, friends, and loved ones. In typical Anna fashion she took on her stage 4 cancer battle with everything she had. Thoughout it all she continued to display her character by showing kindness, love, and helping others. She deserved to be here for so much longer and will be greatly missed. We'll remember her thick dark hair and many nice moments hanging out together. Till we meet again.


Linda & Kevin Kavitch

A beautifully written tribute to Anna. I did not have the pleasure of meeting her - but as I was reading, I felt a warmth, a closeness, a connect to a very compassionate, driven, sensitive, tender, intuitive and spirited lady. Condolences to Camryn, Kim and the entire Borsa family.


Audrey & Bruce Langhorst

I was so saddened to hear the news of Anna's passing. I had the pleasure of working with her almost 20 years ago with, Manitoba Sheriff's. I knew then, She was made for greatness, and would make her dream come true, to become a Police Officer. It was our loss then, when we lost her to WPS....Now it's our loss now. Here's to a wonderful, beautiful person....Rest in peace, Anna!


Ryan Johnston

I taught Anna throughout high school as well as coaching her on the basketball team. I am heartbroken to hear of her passing. I have strong memories of her athleticism, intelligence and overall kindness. The world has definitely lost a shining star. All my sympathies to her family.


Tracey (Hossfeld) Cathcart

To Tom and Phyllis my deepest sympathy on the loss of your daughter. Losing a daughter or son is always tragic and while I didn't know Anna-Marie she sounds to have been a wonderful person.


Brian Kirkpatrick

Anna had a way of making everyone feel special. Just by the way she looked intently in your eyes and gave you the biggest laugh. She was always cheerful even In the hardest of times. She fought so hard to beat this..but throughout her battle always had time for her people. Always putting others first. She loved her daughter Camy with her entire being...the child holding the teddy bear pendant, a symbol of Camy, always worn around her neck with pride. My dear friend Anna...I loved you so deeply, just as you loved all your friends. Your presence will be felt forever...but I know we will meet again. 💗


Deb Mitchell

So sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter, Tom and Phyllis. Prayers for all of your family at this time.


Brian and Donna Scott

Dear Camy, your mom is a special, much loved and talented person, and so are you. She is always with you. I used to babysit your mom and your Uncle Tommy. Your mom taught me how to make bracelets out of embroidery thread and loved her cabbage patch dolls. She has always had the best hair style! You and Kim and Uncle Tom and aunty Amanda and grandpa Tom and grandma Phyllis and the rest of your family are surrounded by all our special memories. Sending peace to you all. Listen with your heart. She’s proud of you.


Michelle Bradley

I had the opportunity to work with Anna in Neepawa during our University years and was very lucky to re-connect with her at the WPS run these last 2 years (she gave me my finishers medal along with a huge hug). Her smile lit up the finish line and I am sure is still shining bright. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.


Dawn Birch

My condolences to Anna's family and friends. I had the privilege of working with Anna at Camp Kippewa. Her energy and spirit were infectious. I am so glad that we had the opportunity to connect over the years. I will cherish the memories of our adventures and her neverending spirit to make the world better.


Dia SWS

Anna: your light shone brighter than anyone's. You were always a part of what was good in the world. You made me a better person for having known you. Go to grace.


Brad McAllister

So very sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful daughter. Our deepest sympathy to Tom, Phyllis and all the family.


Sheila and Bruce Bremner

I had the honor of working with Anna in div 11 CSU back in 2010, she was always so happy and such a positive person to be around! Taken way too soon, very sad.


Edith

A young life cut down too soon - a parents' worst nightmare! It's with our families' sincerest condolences and a heavy heart we share your loss of Anna. We are pleased to have many fond memories of Anna to cherish for the rest of our life. Cousin, Ray & Family.


RAY SOCHASKI

A beautiful woman who led a fascinating life. I was so glad to know her from family events and stories. Her confidence and strong personality always shone.


Connie Gryba

Back to the ‘good old days’ of growing up in Neepawa , I was a neighbor to the Borsa family. Anna’s brother and I were the same age and she was the younger sister who ALWAYS had a smile on her face. Many hours spent playing at the park in the north end with Tom and Anna. Huge hugs to the Borsa family and Anna’s sweet daughter. Shine bright Anna.💫


Shelley Allen

My condolences to the Borsa family and her daughter Camryn. Her smile was so bright. Nothing could dim it, not even the fight against cancer. She was brave and strong as she embarked on the many adventures that Camy can cherish in her memory of her mother forever. Anna, you will be missed. Until we meet again. Rest easy. #AnnaStrong #2184


Belinda Duncan

Our heartfelt condolences on your loss. I was fortunate to meet Anna in residence in my first year of university. She was a beautiful person inside and out and her vibrant personality and kindness always stood out. I will always remember her quick smile and amazing laugh.


Jody Reynolds

Heartfelt condolences to Anna's family. She was truly an inspiration and will never be forgotten.


Chris Wingfield

Heartfelt condolences from our family!! Anna and I did a summer student position with RCMP. She was always smiling then. I got hired in 1998 and she in 2000. We never worked together but when she was in back office detective district six my parents house was broken into. They stole my mother’s jewellery box that was hand carved from her uncle who has served In the British army in the war and had since deceased. Her wedding ring was stolen. My mother was heartbroken. Anna was assigned the file and she worked hard at solving it. It took a while but although the ring was never located the jewelry box was and my mother’s pearls and other sentimental items were returned. My mother was forever grateful. Anna was wonderful and was an old school police officer. One who believed in doing the right thing always no matter how tough or how long it would take. She is tenacious and loyal and lovely. Forever to be missed. My heart breaks for Camy and Kim and all her loved ones. prayers for you this day and always. Heather


Heather Lysak

I am lost for words and saddened by the passing of Anna. A great police officer and a wonderful soul. RIP.


Mike Kloos

The Howard family (from Neepawa) extends our deepest sympathy to The Borsa family. We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I, Debbie, followed Anna’s journey on FB. Courageous and brave, she was truly an inspiration to all. Debbie Howard


Debbie Howard

I only knew of Anna through her aunt Joan Borsa whom I met some 30 years ago - and Anna was introduced to me then. She was a very special niece to her Aunt Joan who was so very proud of her feminist attitude in making a life on her own terms. Such spunk and energy- my heart goes out to all of her family and close friends, I know you will miss her dearly.


Cyndy Chwelos

I remember Anna from our days with Campus Security. She was always so vibrant, kind hearted and full of laughter. I am very saddened to hear that she is gone too soon. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.


Naomi Green

Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Kim, and the entire Borsa family, on your terrible loss. Kelly & Leanne Harrington


Kelly HARRINGTON

Sadly I have never met Anna. Which doesn’t make a difference. She was a friend of mine regardless and I was introduced to her through Amanda Elsenheimer. Beautiful people live in this world and it’s heartbreaking when we lose them. She will always be remembered and be thought of frequently🤍


Shelly

My Beloved Anna; You lit up my world with your brilliant light. Connected by heart, strengthened in faith - my sister you will always be. #ANNASTRONG tattooed on my skin, and my love for you overflowing in my heart. I miss you every second of every passing day. Without you, I am lost. My world has lost its light. Rest easy my girl. Your soul shall now be the most beautiful in all the heavens. Until we meet again, I will long to hear you say "Oh hey Michelle" beaming that gorgeous smile from ear to ear.


Michelle Janzen

Our deepest sympathies to Tom, Phyliss and all the family of Anna! Anna was in our son's classes in Neepawa. She was always a kind wonderful person. So sorry for your loss! Alex & Val Jarema


Valerie Jarema

Dear Kim and Camryn, I am so very sorry to hear of Anna’s passing. My heart goes out to all of you. Remember all the wonderful times that you had together and the memories you made. Another fine person taken too soon.


Peggy Poole

Next door neighbours in Neepawa, the Bayes family extends our deepest sympathy to The Borsa family. We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We remember Anna as an active, outgoing, and friendly person. Always with a smile, someone you wanted on your team playing sports in the park, a friend to all. God bless.


Rebecca Bayes

I met Anna only briefly but can't forget that infectious smile! A vibrant life taken too soon and one who's presence on this big rock was a blessing to all who knew her. My condolences to the Borsas ans Koswins.


Gary Honey

Wow, that was incredibly well written. I knew Anna for a very short period of time when I transferred to WDS. I instantly was taken back by how loud she was haha. I loved her confidence and energy which is often lacking in Police Officers at 2am. When I arrived at WDS as well I was partnered with a young female officer who spoke so fondly of her. I felt like I got to know Anna through her and what I saw is a strong confident woman who went out of her way to help others and mentor anyone who wanted it. When Anna got sick I watched her journey online and to this day I cannot say how amazed I am with her courage and attitude. She literally never stopped fighting and never stopped smiling. How she lived in the past few years has been such an inspiration. She showed us that life is more than just being alive, that you never know what life will throw at you so you better live. She was an amazing woman and she will be deeply missed. Thoughts and prayers. 


Andrew Hargrove

Sincere Sympathies to the whole family. Marie Andrée and Michel Portelance Step parents of Tara Bolin


Michel Portelance

Sincere Sympathies to the whole family. Marie Andrée & Michel Portelance Step parents of Tara Bolin


Michel Portelance

So honoured to have had Anna in my life as friend. The brightest most positive light around! I will cherish the memory our Devote Calgary work trip - gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain in Banff and dinner at the Keg.....really gonna miss you Anna. You are the definition of Class.


Tim Sharples

Our hearts are truly broken for the loss of Anna and everything she meant to her friends and family. I only ever knew her as a sister in blue, but never once saw her without a huge smile and welcoming presence. I have always admired the many things she has accomplished both personally and professionally which make her an example to strive for, an outstanding role model. May that live on in her beautiful daughter and through the beautiful memories with her family and friends. My sincerest condolences to all of you. -Lisa Allison


Lisa Allison

Anna always seemed to be squeezing every bit of joy out of life, truly living and loving in the moment. When Anna entered a room, conversation stopped and heads turned. Her beauty, smile and overall presence could take your breath away. It is difficult to understand how life can continue without this brilliant human spark. Fortunately, Anna lives on in the love of her life, Camy. There is no question she will be by your side always, guiding, listening and loving you forever. Our sincere condolences to Kim, Camryn, and Anna’s family. May your memories bring you peace. Ken & Michele Shipley


Ken and Michele Shipley

Over the many years that I saw Anna during our time with the WPS, I never once saw her without that big, beaming smile. She was always a breath of fresh air, always positive and always smiling. I saw your patrol jacket hanging in the office last week and I asked about it. It was then I found out that you had gone to Riverview. You’ll be missed. Keep smiling Anna, I’m sure you’re brightening up someone else’s world right now. My condolences to Camy and to the rest of your family and friends.


Frank Wurr

Our sincerest condolences to the Borsa family on Anna’s passing. We will keep her memory alive in the heart of our beloved granddaughter Camryn.


Les and Lynda Janzen

Anna was a bright shining light to many, even with her diagnosis, she was supportive to others going through a cancer diagnosis themselves. I will forever remember her as a beautiful human, a sister in blue and an amazing mother to Camy. Her friendship was a special one, and you didn’t have to see her everyday to know that if you asked her to help you, she’d drop everything to be there. She is truly one of the most giving, loving and supportive people I have ever had the privilege to meet. You will never be forgotten Anna. Annie Boyko


Anne Boyko

A beautifully written tribute for a very special woman. Anna will be deeply missed by all those who had the good fortune to know her.


Jim Thiessen

In the past few days I have described Anna to my family as being upbeat, always a smile and a genuine good person. Sorry for the loss


Dave Lysyk

My deepest Condolences Camryn & Kim. I spent 35 years with the WPS & unfortunately never had the opportunity to meet Anna. Definitely a Wonderful Person, Mother & Partner taken way before her time.


Rick Elgar

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