Anita Louise Sandrini, affectionately known as Grandma Anita and revered as a pillar of the community, passed away on March 25, 2024, just five days shy of her 83rd birthday.
She was born on March 30, 1941, in Chehalis, Washington, to Louise and Clarence Olson. Anita was a proud graduate of Adna High School, class of 1959, and went on to lead a remarkable life filled with love, laughter and service to others.
On May 7, 1960, she married the love of her life, Ben Sandrini. Anita and Ben first met at the Centralia Dairy Queen, where Anita arrived in her pink Buick, a memory they cherished throughout their lives. They later tied the knot in Bakersfield, California, beginning a lifelong journey together. Together, Anita and Ben raised three children: Benny, Cindy and Ron.
Anita was a dedicated school bus driver and sports bus driver, always making sure to bring treats for the kids after the games. She also served as a bookkeeper for Sandrini Construction and owned Affairs of the Heart Bridal shop, where she showcased her talent as a master seamstress. Additionally, Anita and Ben owned Papa Ben's Diner. In her free time, Anita enjoyed cooking, sewing, canning and cake decorating. She played softball until the age of 55 and was active in various community organizations, including the Adna Happy Homemakers 4-H group and her sorority.
Anita was the ultimate Adna Pirate Sports cheerleader, known for her famous cheer, "Two bits, four bits, six bits, a dollar. All for Adna stand up and holler," rallying the team and crowd to victory. Anita was known for co-organizing the annual Adna Lions Club Corn and Clam Feed, where she delighted guests with her famous spaghetti.
Anita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ben Sandrini. She is survived by her three children, Benny and wife, Debbie, Sandrini; Cindy and husband, Jim, Smith; and Ron and wife, Kathy Jo, Sandrini. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness through her nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
A viewing in honor of Anita will be held on April 12, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sticklin Funeral Home. Following the viewing, a reception celebrating Anita's life will take place at Jesters Auto Museum, 321 Hamilton Road, Chehalis, Washington, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Family was everything to Anita, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
