Lorita Mae Anderson

Thriving in the harshest conditions, producing the most delicate of blooms, and protected by the hardest thorns, the wild rose defines strength, beauty and fortitude. It is therefore fitting that Lorita's name means "wild rose" as she epitomized all those qualities.

Fiercely independent, yet tender of spirit and generous in deed, she gave freely of what she had to anyone in need. Wary of strangers, but once she named you friend she was a staunch ally and loyal companion. Despite often seeking solitude, she delighted in the company of family and friends ... always giving of her wry wit and mischievous smile.

Possessing an affinity to all things wild she anticipated each year the return of the ducks and geese to nest and raise their young in the nearby pond.

An avid reader, she devoured murder mysteries, Stephen King novels, and encouraged her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews to nurture a lifelong love of reading. She equally enjoyed movies – especially anything with John Wayne or Judy Garland and knew nearly every country-western song that came on the radio by heart – especially those by the bad boys like Willie and Waylon.

Lorita M. Anderson was born to Lila Dolorita Spurlock and Charles Anderson on Feb. 3, 1940, in Missoula, where she lived for most of her life. She attended the University of Montana in the 1970s majoring in English and history, and encouraged her children to pursue all forms of higher education. When her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's she moved in with her and provided dedicated and loving care for many years.

She is survived by three children, Dwayne Templeton and Jodie Foley (Jana Maier) of Helena and Scott Foley (Stacy Etzwiler) of Pahrump Nevada; two siblings, Dan Anderson (Mary Anderson) of Beatty, Nevada, and Judy Rice (Frank Rice) of Sierra Vista, Arizona; four grandchildren, Seth, Deanna, Samantha and Mark; 11 nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; and several cousins.

A life celebration will be held at a future date. Those wishing to attend may contact the email provided below for details. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be offered to AniMeals of Missoula, or the Lorita M. Anderson Scholarship fund at UM Foundation, PO Box 7159, Missoula, MT 59807-7159. Please send questions or well wishes to montanapunky@gmx.com.

Read Lorita Anderson's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.