Johanna (Ann) Berthoud

Johanna (Ann) Berthoud died peacefully at home on July 29, 2016 at the age of 85.

Born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, on Dec. 7, 1930, Ann’s teen years were spent in Nazi occupied Holland. Her family immigrated to the U.S. in the early 1950s, and because of her adventurous spirit, she made herself at home quite quickly.

After settling in San Francisco, Ann met her husband Claude. They were married in 1959 and made their home in the city. After having two sons, Michel (Mike) and Alec J., they moved to Sonoma to lead a more rural life and raise their boys from elementary school on. Upon moving to Sonoma, they planted vineyards on their property on Craig Avenue and started a small family winery, immersing themselves in the wine industry. Today, Berthoud Family Winery is operated by her son, Mike and granddaughter, Kayla.

Ann was loved and adored by many (friends, family and her cats) and had several nicknames. Whether she was known by Ansie, Tante Ansie, Meisie or Mamoo, she answered to them all and loved spending time with her amazing neighbors, friends and family.

Ann was very active in her later years, enjoying weaving, spinning wool, and Italian language sessions with her dear and wonderful friends who remained very close.

Ann loved entertaining and was a brilliant cook and baker. For many years during the grape harvest, it was Ann who would cook all morning long in order to feed the family, friends and vineyard workers who came to help. She prepared a truly amazing outdoor feast with many great Berthoud wines. Her passion for good food and wine prompted her to take many trips with her girlfriends in search of new culinary adventures.

Ann is preceded in death by her husband, Claude, in 2007, and her son, Alec in 1987. She is survived by her son, Mike, daughter-in-law, Shawn, grandchildren Kayla (26) and Alec H. (23), and numerous nieces and nephews and surrogate family members who call her Mamoo.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016 at the Berthoud Property from 1 to 4 p.m. In lieu of sending flowers, please plant one in her memory.