Anita Banta, 84

It is with heavy hearts that we are announcing the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and friend, Anita Louise Banta.

Anita was born Dec. 5, 1935, in Minneapolis, Minn. She passed away March 29, 2020, in Coeur d’Alene, at the age of 84. Anita moved to the West Coast with her family during World War II, and from Warrenton, Ore., to North Idaho in 1966. She settled in Coeur d’Alene with her husband, Robert, in 1972.

Anita was a lifetime member of the NRA and served as secretary and treasurer for the Friends of the NRA for 20 years. She was also a volunteer hunter education instructor for Idaho Fish and Game and taught hundreds of new hunters during her 30-year tenure.

Anita was very active with the Republican Central Committee and the North Idaho Pachyderms for many years and was known to never pass up a good political debate. She and Bob were involved with the Spokane Falls Muzzleloader Club and participated in their rendezvous and other club functions. The organization that really captured her heart was the VFW Post 889 Women’s Auxiliary, where she was a lifetime member.

Anita was a longtime Certified Legal Assistant in the Coeur d’Alene and Spokane area for Charlie Kimball, Dave Manko and David “Rob” Robinson, for whom she worked diligently, loyally and patiently for 23 years. She was a highly respected and outspoken member of the North Idaho legal community for many years, and would religiously attend Kootenai County and First District Bar Association meetings, where she took great pleasure in grilling the presenters.

Anita will be remembered most for her love, dedication and loyalty to her family and friends. She was an amazing cook and her prime rib, Swedish sausage, and Mexican meals were legendary. She absolutely loved Christmas, especially when the entire big, loud, hungry family was present. Her food, friendship and guidance will be sorely missed by all.

Anita is survived by her husband, Bob, of 55 years; siblings Philip, Marlys, Merle, Paul and Alan; sons Richard Sr., and Robert Jr. (Cherie); grandchildren Leon, Melanie, Stephanie (Mark), Mandy, Laura (Greg), Richard Jr., Shina (Chris) and Natasha; as well as eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She also leaves behind a close, dedicated circle of friends.

Services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to the VFW Post 889 Women’s Auxiliary in her name.