Anita Marie Tschirgi, 80, of Spokane, Washington, passed away on August 9, 2023, surrounded by family. Anita was born on March 3, 1943, to Wayne and Mabel Sebesta in Bonesteel, South Dakota.

Anita graduated from Marycliff Highschool in 1961. She went on to study at Gonzaga University where she earned a BA in English with a lifetime K-12 teaching certificate. Later, she received an MA from Gonzaga University in Curriculum, Instruction, and Supervision.

After graduating, she accepted her first position in the Federal Way School District and then Spokane School District until her retirement. Anita taught Kindergarten – third grade. Most of her teaching was with second grade classes at Roosevelt Elementary. Anita taught for 37 years, and she LOVED her students.

Anita once said, "I think my life's work of teaching began at age three when I ran away TO school, which was a one-room country schoolhouse in South Dakota. Playing school was my favorite pastime and, of course, I was always the teacher with my brother playing the part of the reluctant pupil." College graduation was an immensely proud day for her. She was BLESSED to have been a positive influence on hundreds of students during her teaching career.

In 2002, Anita retired and spent her time doing all the things she loved best. First and foremost, Anita loved to sing. Out of high school she joined the Cecilians group. After her retirement she continued to sing in the church choir, a 50-voice mixed chorus, a women's triple trio, and a 16 member acapella group. She also enjoyed traveling abroad and within the U.S visiting places such as Paris, Greece, Italy, Canada, Japan, and numerous places closer to home. Anita was a highly active member of the Delta Kappa Gamma, Key Women Educators Society International. She attended state, regional, and international conferences and held various offices at the chapter and state level. Another joy of Anita's was Friendship Force, an international organization that promotes peace and understanding throughout the world by means of home-stay exchanges. She held office, planned conferences, and had been Exchange Director in her local club. She was a frequent attendee of Spokane Symphony and theater productions in the area with her dear friends. She loved the local restaurant scene and would most certainly describe herself as a foodie.

Anita was a huge Zags fan and was enthusiastic about "the boys." But beyond all these things was her deep and abiding love for her three sons, Michael, Matthew, and Scott and her seven grandchildren and great-grandchild. She was always present at holidays, birthdays, dance recitals, concerts, sporting events, and whatever else the kids had going on.

Anita was predeceased by Wayne Sebesta (father), Mabel Sebesta (mother), and Harry "Hoppy" Sebesta (brother). She is survived by her children, Michael, Matthew (Niki), Scott (Susie) and grandchildren, Liza, Luis, Carlosse, Samantha, Tommy, Alex, Zack, great-grandchild Lili, niece Stephanie Macabeo, nephew Steve Sebesta, and Rich Tschirgi.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Vanessa Behan, a local non-profit that provides safety for children, strengthens families, and creates a healthier community in an environment of unconditional love.