Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan — The community is mourning the loss of Annie Kot (née Ann Michelle Dombowsky), who passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the age of 34 following a year-long battle with a rare form of cancer.
According to family accounts, Annie died peacefully in the afternoon, surrounded by her husband, children, and close loved ones. She had spent her final eight days in the intensive care unit in Regina, where she received continuous support and care from both medical staff and family members who remained by her side.
Born on February 22, 1992, in Moose Jaw, Annie was the fourth of five children to Shelly and Ben Dombowsky. She was raised in the city and received her early education at Cornerstone Christian School before completing high school at Central Collegiate. During her school years, she formed close friendships and first met Joel Kot, who would later become her husband.
After graduating, Annie pursued ministry training in California, where she attended Bethel School of Ministry for two years, followed by an internship. During that time, she participated in outreach efforts, volunteering with seniors and contributing to humanitarian work in countries including Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Nicaragua.
Upon returning to Moose Jaw, Annie enrolled in a Business program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, completing her studies over two years. During this period, she reconnected with Joel Kot, and their relationship developed further. The couple married on October 19, 2019, in New York City.
They later settled in Moose Jaw, where they built their family. Annie gave birth to their daughter, Gianna Gem Kot, in November 2020, and their son, Ari Thomas Kot, in May 2023. Alongside family life, she also trained as a hairstylist, earning her Red Seal certification.
Family members describe Annie as deeply relational, organized, and attentive to others, often expressing care through practical support and thoughtful gestures. Her life reflected a strong commitment to service, both within her community and internationally.
She is survived by her husband Joel Kot, their two children, Gia and Ari, her parents Shelly and Ben Dombowsky, and her siblings Matt, Mark, Louis, and Abigail, along with their respective families. She is also survived by her in-laws, John and Eva Kot, and extended family members.
Annie was predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Louis and Elenora Dombowsky, her maternal grandfather Ed Begin, and her aunt Rosanne King.
Funeral arrangements and memorial details are expected to be announced by the family at a later date.
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