LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Ann Erdman (Photos courtesy of Jessica Cremans, Facebook)
Ann Erdman, Pasadena’s former Public Information Officer, passed away yesterday surrounded by loved ones. In a heartfelt tribute, Akila Gibbs, Executive Director of the Pasadena Senior Center, reflected on Erdman’s decades of dedicated public service, her vibrant spirit, and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
By Akila Gibbs
We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Ann Erdman yesterday, surrounded by love. She was embraced by her daughter, Jessica, and Jessica’s wife, Trina, with Ella Fitzgerald’s Misty playing in the background—an atmosphere of grace and warmth that reflected Ann herself.
Ann dedicated decades to public service, managing the Public Affairs Office for the City of Pasadena since 1991. With integrity and transparency, she shaped communication in Pasadena, serving as a trusted voice to the media, the mayor, city council, and countless residents. Dubbed the “Minister of Truthiness” by the *Pasadena Weekly*, Ann set the standard for honesty and clarity in her work.
After retiring in 2012, she continued to lend her talents to nonprofits, including the Pasadena Senior Center, where we were privileged to have her expertise, even if our resources never matched her worth. Regardless, she gave her all—telling stories with precision, grace, and unwavering commitment. She was a true professional, but beyond that, she was a joyful soul, a woman of faith, and someone who faced challenges with humor and determination.
Ann wasn’t just a master of public affairs; she embraced Pasadena’s culture with unparalleled enthusiasm. Having worked under former Palm Springs Mayor Sonny Bono, she brought her deep expertise to Pasadena, where she became an integral part of its traditions—both grand and unconventional. In 2012, she made local history as the first person to ride in both the Rose Parade and its wildly spirited counterpart, the Doo Dah Parade. But her Doo Dah involvement started long before that. Over the years, she took on roles ranging from Dorothy from *The Wizard of Oz* to Elvis, a baby in a giant high chair, a captain of industry, and even a motorcycle mama. No matter the costume or occasion, Ann never said no—because, as she put it, “if there’s one thing I think I have, it’s guts.”
And guts she had. Ann faced numerous illnesses over the years, yet through it all, she relied on her faith, humor, and the unwavering support of her family and friends to carry her forward. She fought to stay alive, and her resilience was a testament to her spirit. The family has not announced the cause of her passing, but what remains clear is her legacy—a life lived fully, courageously, and with deep dedication to the community she loved.
Her impact on our community, and on all of us who had the honor of working alongside her, will not be forgotten.
Akila Gibbs is the Executive Director of the Pasadena Senior Center.
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