Downers Grove Resident Cherishing a Memory of Robert Redford

When actress Ann Springer learned of Robert Redford’s recent passing, her thoughts immediately turned to one of her most treasured Hollywood memories. Ann worked on the film Ordinary People, which Redford directed. After a day of filming, he kissed her on the cheek.“I ended up on the cutting room floor,” Ann recalled with a laugh, “but I never washed my face again. I just let it glow and glow.”

Now, reflecting on his life and great legacy, Ann added, “He was one of the greats. Magical. I have such respect for his accomplishments.”

A Life in the Spotlight

For Ann, the spotlight has never dimmed. From her first laugh as Captain Hook in an eighth-grade play to sharing scenes with Donald Sutherland in Ordinary People, she has spent her life connecting with audiences through humor, warmth, and creativity.

“They needed someone tall to play Captain Hook in Peter Pan. I was the tallest. I got a couple of laughs, and if you’ve ever stood in front of people and made them laugh, you know it’s a beautiful feeling,” Ann recalled. “I’ve wanted that gift every day since.”

Today, that same energy and spirit are thriving at Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove.

From Goodman to the Stage and Big Screen

A career actress, Ann was a proud member of Actors’ Equity, the Screen Actors Guild, and AFTRA. Her path led her from the Goodman School of Drama to performances at Drury Lane in Chicago, where she shared the stage with Darren McGavin and Van Johnson, and to Traverse City, where she worked alongside Leonard Nimoy.

Life Beyond the Stage

Ann’s life offstage was just as rich. As a single mother, she supported her children through acting and commercials (including many with Morris the Cat). Later, she shared 45 loving years with her husband, Jack. After his passing, Ann knew it was time for a new beginning.

“When I made the move to Oak Trace, my son was so thrilled. It lifted a weight off his shoulders,” Ann recalled. “That first night, I slept like a rock. All my worry was over.”

A Joyful New Chapter

Today, Ann is as active as ever at Oak Trace. She attends concerts and joins lively games of chair volleyball. “We scream and holler; it’s wonderful fun,” she said. She has quickly become a familiar, friendly face throughout the community.

Reflections from the Spotlight

Looking back, Ann reflects on her journey with deep gratitude.

“Acting was a wonderful way to live. It was fun, it was rich, and I got to be so many different people. But most of all, I felt connected, especially through laughter. That first laugh I got as Captain Hook? That’s what kept me going.”

Oak Trace is Ann’s new stage. “I’ve always lived for laughter and connection, and I’ve found that here all over again,” she said.

At Oak Trace, Ann continues to shine, not as a retiree stepping away from life, but as a woman embracing her next chapter with joy, friendship, and purpose.

Oak Trace Senior Living

Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove, Illinois, is set on more than 40 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, ponds, and abundant green space. As a Life Plan Community, formerly known as a CCRC, Oak Trace offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. Oak Trace is owned by Lifespace, a not-for-profit organization with nearly 50 years of experience in senior living. To learn more about Oak Trace, visit www.OakTraceSeniorLiving.com.