Ann M. McHugh

ANN M. McHUGH, age 80, beloved wife for 41 years of Edward Mallinak; cherished daughter of the late Andrew J. and Catherine (nee Kohl) McHugh; dearest sister of Patricia M. Kluk (husband David, deceased) and the late Mary Kay Fox (husband John, deceased) and sister-in-law of Mary Ann and the late Dan Morell, Gerri and the late Dan Downing, and Richard and Mary Lou Mallinak; dear aunt of fourteen nieces and nephews and great-aunt of many. Survived by her beloved "Fuzzbutts," Kacee, Luckee, Rosee, and Sullee.

Ann was born March 11, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio, where she would graduate from Beaumont High School in 1964. She went on to receive her bachelor's degree in biology in 1968 from Ursuline College and enter the field as a medical technologist. She found employment at the Cleveland Clinic and worked in Laboratory Medicine for 42 long years until her retirement. Ann enjoyed many hobbies, such as sewing baking, and embroidery. When she wasn't practicing her sewing skills, however, she might be found cheering on sports car racing. Ann was a lifetime member of the Sports Car Club of America, where she served as a regional executive and trustee and helped organize participation in the Greater Cleveland Auto show and Autorama. She even held a SCCA competition driving license. During national championships, Ann worked in the SCCA press office and filed race reports back to the Plain Dealer sports department. For many years she was the race chairman of the nationally recognized 24-hour endurance race at the Nelson Ledges Road Course, where she served as Public Relations chief and published event programs. Ann was also a major fan of Cleveland sports; she watched every Guardians, Cavs, and Browns game. She and her beloved dogs were members of the Browns Barking Backers club and often visited the stadium together for club events. Ann was best known for her great love for her dogs. She was an American Kennel Club Breeder of Merit of many champion and grand-champion Keeshond dogs. Beyond her passion for dog breeding, she was also an accomplished obedience trainer. Ann held multiple titles and notable dogs, organized rescue efforts, and planned AKC events. She was known by many friends as "the chicken fairy" for distributing her hard to resist dehydrated chicken treats to pups. She made many kinds of dog treats, such as dog biscuits and even vegan treats. She was also known to make dog tug toys and adorable custom bandanas. She often sent these gifts to dogs being rescued or fighting illness. A breast cancer survivor of over twelve years, Ann's strong will never let it hold her down. Her feisty personality and great sense of humor always made the days a little brighter. Ann is remembered dearly for her generosity, friendly spirit, and devotion to her family and faith.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Ann to American Cancer Society, 6704. Hagerstown, MD 21741, by clicking HERE, or to your favorite pet rescue organization.

Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, May 7, 2026, at St. Anselm Catholic Church, 12969 Chillicothe Rd, Chesterland, OH 44026 at 10 AM. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Ann at THE DEJOHN FUNERAL HOMES & CELEBRATIONS CENTER, 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) WEDNESDAY 3 - 5 and 6 - 8 PM.