Dr. K. Ann Jeglum

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. K. Ann Jeglum.

Ann was born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 15, 1951 and was the daughter of the late B. Wayne Jeglum and the late Kathryn Ann Mccoy Jeglum.

Much of her early childhood was spent in Iowa, where her love of animals was obvious. Ann built her first veterinary hospital in the attic of her home, where she “treated" all her stuffed animals. She had a pet guinea pig that she would put in a baby carriage and take for walks around her neighborhood.

After moving to New Jersey, Ann attended and graduated from Bloomfield High School. She was named the school mascot, the Bengal tiger and she entertained the crowds at athletic events with her gymnastic antics. Following graduation from the University of New Hampshire, Ann went on to receive her veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania, where she developed a thirst for research and oncology. She became a member of the faculty at Univ. of Penn. and served as Associate Professor of Medical Oncology and Chair of the Oncology Service. Ann also held appointments to the National Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center and the Wistar Institute. She developed and did clinical testing of canine lymphoma monoclonal antibody 231, which helped extend the life of her cancer patients, sometimes for years. The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation named Ann veterinarian of the year in 2015. She was the first recipient of this award.

Ann was the founder and sole owner of Veterinary Oncology Services and Research Center in West Chester, PA where she continued her passion of creating new protocols for her patients. Ann also founded Veterinary Comparative Oncology Research Foundation (VCORF), which was a non-profit for owners who could not afford treatment for their pets. Over the years, many of Ann's veterinary technicians went on to become veterinarians themselves, which is a testament to the inspiration she was to so many.

Ann loved her dogs and was the owner and breeder of many champion Cocker Spaniels, Pugs and German Shorthair Pointers. She loved entertaining and cooking for her friends at her homes in Maine and Pennsylvania. Ann was an outstanding golfer who never had enough time to play. She loved boating and all sports, as well as sports trivia. Ann even attempted to learn the Olympic sport of curling!! She enjoyed traveling and visiting many places, including numerous European countries in her limited leisure time. Learning about the culture of various countries, having lively discussions on a variety of topics and enjoying a great glass of chardonnay made her happy. Being an avid reader, she could dive into 4 different books at one time! Due to her extensive studies, Ann was invited to give oncology lectures to veterinary students in Germany and Italy. Ann also had a wicked sense of humor, albeit a bit dry at times. She was a loyal and devoted friend who gave more time and care to her friends than she ever gave to herself. She was known to clients as "Dr Jeglum", "mama bird" to her employees and just "Ann" to her family and many friends.

Ann is survived by her longtime partner Karen L. Kohlmeyer. Ann is also survived by her brother, Mike Jeglum (Vicki), loving niece, Michelle Samsel (Jason), nephew, Michael (Tracey), great nephew, Jaxon and great niece, Haley and former spouse, Mark Paquette. Ann is also survived by many dear friends and associates who now are at a loss for that person who always found time for them. She is dearly missed.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lesley's Place in memory of K. Ann Jeglum, VMD.

Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. Of West Chester, PA. 610-696-1181; www.DellaFH.com