Anna Maria Bacchiocchi

Anna Maria Zeferina Gandin Bacchiocchi, 77, fell asleep in the Lord on Sunday, August 7, 2016. The youngest of four children, Anna was born in Mareno Di Piave, Italy on August 25, 1938 to Giuseppe and Maria (Sanzovo) Gandin. In high school she began a friendship with Samuele Bacchiocchi. After completing her nursing degree at Clinique La Lignere, Switzerland, the happy couple married on December 21, 1961 inside Andrews University’s Theological Seminary’s small chapel. From 1963-1969, Anna and Samuele served as missionaries in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was during that time they joyfully welcomed the arrival of two children: Loretta (1964) and Daniele (1967). The family moved to Rome, Italy in 1969 for Samuele to complete his PhD. It was there Anna gave birth to her second son, Gianluca (1971).   In 1974, the family moved to Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, where Samuele taught Church History and Anna brilliantly managed the home and education of three successful children.  Anna was a lady of kindness, grace and beauty. She was blessed with culinary skills, delighting all palates.  Most importantly, she was a woman devoted to faith, family and friendships.  Anna lifted up everyone in the community in prayer daily. She is survived by her daughter Loretta Bacchiocchi of Orlando, FL; two sons Daniel (Michelle) Bacchiocchi of Berrien Springs, MI, and Gianluca (Silvia) Bacchiocchi of St. Joseph, MI; brothers Antonio (Guilietta) and Martino of Italy; one sister Gina of Italy; five grandchildren Christiano, Lauren, Isabella, Gianna, and Enzo.  She is preceded by her parents and husband Samuele (2008). A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 12, at 10 am at Pioneer Memorial Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Berrien Springs. No visitation will be held.  A private burial will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery following the service.  In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in Anna’s name to Andrews University Department of Music, Hamel Hall 207, Berrien Springs, MI  49103.  Those wishing to sign her memory book online may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com.