Anita Louise Stixrud

Anita Louise Stixrud, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed peacefully on March 17, 2023, after a courageous battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Born on February 23, 1956, in University Place, Washington, Anita graced the world with a spirit as warm and loving Anita was the cherished daughter of Virginia Adeline Carlbum and Herbert Raymond Smith. She grew up with a heart full of love and compassion, qualities that would define her life and the numerous lives she touched. Predeceased by her husband, Elvis Ejovi, whom she married on December 26, 2018, and her sister, Linda Hop, Anita's legacy is carried on by her devoted family. She is survived by her children, Michael Ray Stixrud (adopted), Shane Robert Stixrud, Rebecca Peterson (adopted), and Kristina Breann Ellis, all of whom were the light of her life. Anita was also a proud grandmother of six, each grandchild a testament to her nurturing spirit and boundless love. Anita's educational journey began at Clover Park High School in Lakewood, WA, where she graduated in 1974. Her life journey took her to Puyallup, WA, in 1980, where she would plant roots and grow a family that would thrive under her care and guidance. Her professional life was marked by her deep compassion and dedication as a special needs foster parent for 25 years. Anita's home was a sanctuary filled with love, understanding, and acceptance. Beyond her nurturing role as a foster parent, Anita spent a decade as an exotic cat breeder, where her love for animals shone brightly. Her beloved exotic cat, Tabia, and her rescued dog, Rocky, found a loving home with her. Anita's personality was as vibrant and engaging as her love for life. Her ability to connect with others was evident in her cherished friendship with Dee, with whom she shared countless hours on FaceTime. Dee was more than a friend; she was a confidante and a source of joy in Anita's life. Anita's warmth extended to all creatures, great and small. Her fondness for animals was only surpassed by her affection for her family, whom she loved with an unwavering devotion. Her home was a haven filled with laughter, love, and the gentle purring of her feline companions. As we remember Anita, we honor more than just her accomplishments and the roles she played. We celebrate a life filled with love, kindness, and an enduring legacy of compassion. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her memory will continue to inspire us to love deeply and live compassionately. A service celebrating Anita's life will be held in her hometown, where family and friends will gather to share stories, shed tears, and honor a remarkable woman who made the world a better place. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local animal shelter, a cause close to Anita's heart. Anita Louise Stixrud will be forever missed, but her love, laughter, and kindness will remain with us always.