‘Remarkable, wonderful, passionate’ Tri-Cities businesswoman and mentor dies

The eternal downtown Kennewick booster and businesswoman Ann Steiger has died.

The popular owner of the Roxy Theatre Antiques was 65.

“Ann welcomed and mentored new businesses and business owners to the downtown. She incubated new businesses and artists within her building. Ann inspired and pushed those around her to be and do better,” said the Historic Downtown Kennewick Partnership on its Facebook page.

“Ann will be missed, but her legacy will live on and continue to make waves in downtown because the women and men she inspired, will continue to innovate and work hard for greatness and community,” said the group.

Steiger lived in the Tri-Cities more than 22 years, having been born in Bremerton and attended California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

She rejuvenated the PJ Murphy Building on Kennewick Avenue to house her antiques and gift store, as well as a coffee shop and the Ivory Jazz Club. She also operated the Kennewick Avenue Farmers Market.

Her efforts earned her the honor of the Downtowner of the Year in 2007.

“The wisdom and advice that she freely gave will always be treasured. Ann leaves behind a legacy of community, strength, beauty, and hospitality. We promise to never stop striving to emulate her example,” said the downtown partnership.

Three years ago she worked to get the city of Kennewick to try a new bold experiment by allowing her to convert some parking spots into an outdoor seating area called a “streatery” where people could sit with a pastry or coffee.

The owners of Rockabilly Roasting Co., which worked with her on the project, also posted their admiration and sadness for her passing.

“We are heartbroken. Ann was our Tri-City mom. She cheered us on and held us up when we wanted to give up. She was a strong woman that was a force to be reckoned with. To know her was to love her. Ann was a pillar In the downtown community, a woman that believed in our vision. She encouraged us to dream big. …,” they said.

“The world and our community lost a remarkable, wonderful, passionate woman,” said the downtown association.

Steiger was suffering from cancer and died Wednesday. Mueller’s Tri-Cities Funeral Home in Kennewick is handling her service arrangements.