Ann Joe Hyer Preece Lake

Ann Joe Hyer Preece Lake, born on April 11, 1940, in Pocatello, Idaho, was the beloved daughter of Mark Golden Preece and Violeet Hyer Preece. She left this mortal life on February 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and devotion to family.

A proud graduate of Pocatello High School in 1958, Ann Joe was deeply involved in student life. She served as a class officer, participated in the Honor Society, and as the tallest in the group, she led the drill team with grace and enthusiasm. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Idaho State University in just three years. During her time there, she was active in the drill team, joined Gamma Phi Beta, and was recognized in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.

Ann Joe’s passion for education led her to a decade-long teaching career in Idaho and Utah. But her life was not just about academics—she had a spirit for business and adventure. She and her former husband, Larry D. Lake, co-owned the Alaska Travel Guide, where Ann managed accounts while Larry handled sales. Their shared love of travel led them to spend half the year exploring Alaska and the other half in Salt Lake City. In 1977, they purchased Western River Expeditions, a family-run business that continues to thrive under the leadership of their son, Brandon, and his two partners.

Ann Joe also co-owned Accounts Receivable Factors from 1987 to 1995, balancing her sharp business skills with a warm, personal touch. She later worked part-time for ZCMI at Cottonwood Mall and Village Communities until 2001.During her younger years, Ann worked at Arctic Circle while attending high school and college. She loved hamburgers and French fries throughout her life. Her grandchildren will always remember her taking them to McDonald’s, no matter where their travels led.

Ann had an infectious love for holidays, ensuring her home was filled with festive decorations—Halloween brought ghosts and skeletons in September, only to make way for dazzling Christmas lights inside and out through January. She loved hosting gatherings, playing Pinochle with the same cherished group of friends for over 40 years, and enjoying Bridge games that strengthened lifelong friendships.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ann Joe served in many capacities, including Young Women’s, Primary, and Sunday School. She lived a life of service, faith, and joy.

Family was the heart of Ann Joe’s world. Her adventurous spirit carried her across the globe, often with her children and grandchildren by her side. Whether exploring Hawaii, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Costa Rica, or her favorite destination, Turks and Caicos, Ann Joe embraced each journey with excitement. She also enjoyed many Caribbean cruises and trips to Europe, Africa and the East Coast with her daughter, Larissa.

She was passionate about the outdoors—hiking, biking, skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing were among her favorite pastimes. A lifelong athlete, she played tennis well into her 70s, only slowing down when her knees and hips required replacement. She was also an active member of Canyon Racquet Club, where she found both competition and camaraderie.

She is survived by her daughter, Larissa (Don), her son, Brandon (Melanie), and her eight treasured grandchildren, Chandler (Megan), Ethan, Noah, Olivia, Zack, Jake, Kayla, and Luke. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Richard (Nedra).

Her life was one of laughter, adventure, and deep love for family and friends. Though she will be dearly missed, her legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew her.

Burial and Viewing Information

Services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Pepperidge Ward at 6710 S 1300 E, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84047. Viewing Friday, March 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Funeral Service Saturday, March 8, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM with viewing prior from 9:00 to 9:45 am. Interment to follow at Mountain View Memorial Cemetary, 3115 Bengal Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121.

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