Obituary of Anita Marie Grosse

This is a picture of a saint whose life of compassionate service to family and community touched many people. Anita was born in Saskatoon, only daughter of Fritz and Marie Thelander, with an older brother, Ronald and younger sib John. She attended St. Joseph School and graduated from Sion Academy, followed by a B.A. Cum Laude at U. of S. The next several years were with Social Services Swift Current region working with child care and adoptions. Her achievements earned her a Federal Bursary for two years obtaining her M.S.W. degree from McGill University. She then worked for the Metro Separate School Board, Toronto, establishing the first drop-in centres for inner city youth, incorporating the spiritual values of the Christian Brothers. She married the love of her life, Rob Grosse in 1971, returning to raise their family in Saskatoon. There followed the halcyon years of young family life including camping, fishing, cottage at the lake, star gazing and watching the antics of their three boys Robert, David and Brian on motorbikes. Music was a major interest including family members playing violin and double bass in Symphony, plus singing in the University Chorus. A return to professional social work beckoned. This led to child and family counselling at the Buckwold center; work with teens at the Yarrow Youth Farm, and significant mentoring at the Avenue M Family Center. Her final years were with the Sask. Justice Dept. and Family Court, preparing child custody and family assessments. Recently she enjoyed her years with the Saskatoon Bridge Club, achieving a Life Masters level. Anita’s passing has left us all with wonderful memories. Children: Robert Jr. (Shauna), David, Brian. Grand Children: Cameron, Kennedy, Gillian, Soleile, Manuelle, Emma; Brothers Ronald (Marjorie) and John. Numerous nieces and nephews. Heroic special care givers during her final days include Christine, Brieanna, Krystal, Tanis and families. Great gratitude to the nurses on 5th Floor RUH for their outstanding care, concern and support during Anita’s terminal days with liver cancer.