Anita Jane (Barron) Vandolah

Anita Jane Vandolah, 78, passed away at home, surrounded by family January 20, 2022 in Conrad. Anita was the middle child of Virgil and Bertha Barron (1987). Anita was close with her older brother, Lloyd Barron (2015) and younger sister, Mary Ann (Lyle) Winkler. Anita grew up in Valier where she attended school and graduated in 1960. Anita moved briefly to Seattle with friends before returning to Montana, moving to Conrad, she boarded a room with close family friend, Minnie White (1983). Anita began dating Marvin "Whitey" White, they married in 1963. The couple lived in Spokane and Dutton before settling in Conrad where they opened a small business. Anita worked for the Conrad Creamery before taking a job at Montana Power. Anita and Whitey raised four daughters until Whitey's death in 1981. Anita and the girls moved to Washington where they enjoyed crabbing, clamming and the coast before moving home to Conrad. Anita ran for public office and began her first term as Pondera Clerk of Court In 1984. Anita was active in the MT Clerk of Court Assn for many years.

Anita married Andy Vandolah December 2,1994. Anita joined her husband in the world of boxing, being appointed as a Montana Boxing Commissioner in 2001. Together they enjoyed extensive travel, Spain and New Orleans being highlights. Anita retired from public service in 2005 after serving 5 terms in office. Life after retirement was busy. Anita obtained her Real Estate license working briefly with her daughter. Anita spent many hours watching grandkids in sporting and FFA events. Much time was spent painting, crafting and being active in her church.

Following Andy's retirement, travel again was a regular occurrence. The couple spent several years visiting the Oregon coast. Summers were enjoyed leasing an RV spot in Glacier Park where they hosted family and friends.  In more recent years, there were extended stays in Washington with Anita's sister and brother-in-law in were enjoyed.

Anita lost her eldest daughter, Terri Smith, in 2017 after a lifelong struggle with kidney disease. Anita's love and commitment to her daughters was unsurpassed, she had a learned and earned strength of spirit and watched over all she loved.

Anita enjoyed the simplicity in life, a mountain campfire, skipping a stone, the cool breeze of the ocean or a family game, and was unbelievable lucky on a keno machine. She was first with a kind word, never met a stranger and her home was always a soft place to land. Anita won't soon be forgotten and remains loved by all.

Fields of green, skies of blue, the peace of rest my body anew,

Sorrow and burden gone from my heart, His grace upon me this world I part,

Memories I take of family and friends, rejoice my loves I'll see you again.

Anita is survived by her husband, Andy Vandolah; daughters, Sherri (Joe) Judisch, Tracie DeBolt, Toni White; step-children, Doug (Katie) Vandolah, Diane (Brad) Brown, and Deena Breckenridge; many cherished grandchildren; great grandchildren; aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews and in-laws.

Anita will be laid to rest in Hillside Cemetery in Conrad. Graveside memorial to be held at later date.