Anita Ruth Kantar

Anita Ruth Kantar, a beacon of warmth and love, peacefully departed this world on July 11, 2026, at the age of 98, surrounded by the comfort of her cherished home. Born on January 9, 1928, in Baltimore, Maryland, Anita was the beloved daughter of Clifford and Gladys Johnson. Her life was a rich tapestry woven with love, service, and the joy of family. Anita's life was marked by her enduring marriage to Nick Kantar, the love of her life. They wed on June 28, 1948, and shared a beautiful journey of nearly 60 years until Nick's passing. Together, they raised four children: Elaine Kantar, Nick Kantar Jr., Nancy Peterson, and Chrissy McKay. Anita was also blessed with six adoring grandchildren—Cory Kantar (Erica), Nicole Kantar Williams, Shelby Doud (Daniel), Melodie Barger (Bobby), Michael, and Kelly McKay—and great grandchildren Connor Kantar, Michael Oliver, Gracie and Maverick Kantar, Avery and Dylan Doud, along with one great-great-grandchild, Kelani Kantar Gomez. A graduate of Central High School in Flint, Michigan, Anita's early career as a secretary at General Motors was just the beginning of her life's many chapters. As an Air Force wife, Anita gracefully managed the demanding role of nurturing her family while moving every three to four years, twice venturing overseas. Her journey took her to vibrant places like Japan, where she volunteered as a "Gray Lady" at Yokota Hospital and honed her culinary skills under the tutelage of the Benedictine Sisters in Tokyo. Anita's kitchen was the heart of her home, filled with the aroma of homemade bread, pies, scalloped potatoes, and tacos—delights that her grandchildren fondly remember. Beyond her culinary prowess, she had a profound love for music and ensured her children were exposed to a world rich in cultural experiences. Anita's vibrant spirit and humor left an indelible mark on the lives she touched, from Michigan to Bermuda, Florida, Oklahoma, Japan, and California. Her kindness, generosity, and sharp wit endeared her to many, and her home was a sanctuary of love and laughter, where family and friends gathered for summer pool parties, backyard games of badminton, barbecues, and festive holiday celebrations. Anita was predeceased by her husband Nick, her sister Jean, her brother Dennis, and her grandson Kellen. In keeping with her family's wishes, a private funeral ceremony is to held to honor Anita’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Anita's name to a charity of choice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others. Anita Ruth Kantar's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a world made better by her presence and a family eternally grateful for the love she so freely gave.