Anna Marie Bollschweiler

A Life of Love, Adventure, and Laughter

Anna Marie Bollschweiler (née Benincosa) preferred to be called "classic" rather than older, and indeed, like a treasured heirloom, she only grew more extraordinary with time. Born May 22, 1937, to William and Rosa Benincosa in Chicago, IL, and passing peacefully on March 31, 2025, in Salt Lake City, UT, Anna Marie's 87 years were filled with adventure, creativity, laughter, and above all, love. 

As the eldest daughter of eight children, Anna Marie learned early how to nurture connections—a gift she carried throughout her life. She had a remarkable talent for turning strangers into friends within moments, her genuine warmth making everyone feel uniquely valued and seen.

 Anna Marie's adventurous spirit led her across 12 different states, never one to shy away from new horizons when her father's and later husband's careers called for moves. Her heart created homes in Utah, Nebraska, Texas, Montana, Washington, and beyond—each place brighter for her presence. Never one to take the well-worn path, Anna Marie preferred finding her own way, often wandering down deer trails to discover the beauty others might miss. 

On May 27, 1955—remarkably, the same day she graduated high school—Anna Marie married O. Gerald "Gary" Bollschweiler and was sealed to him in the Salt Lake City temple. Their partnership would span 65 years and produce five beloved children: Dennis (Merrilyn), Bradley (Cynthia), Steven (Diane), Sandra (Grant), and Allen (Tamera). She was a devoted mother and incredibly close to all of her children and their spouses. 

Those who knew Anna Marie will forever cherish her infectious laugh and mischievous giggle. She was notorious for proudly flouting the rules when it came to card games, especially Uno and Hand & Foot. With her sisters Mary Jo and Barbara by her side, she created memories filled with joy and the occasional good-natured trouble. The trio became a familiar sight at the Roy Rec Center, claiming their swim lane for gabbing and sisterly bonding, and getting in their water aerobics. 

Anna Marie's hands were rarely still. She enjoyed being outside and gardening. As a skilled quilter and seamstress, she created treasures that will warm her family for generations—from wedding dresses lovingly sewn for her daughter and granddaughter to the countless quilts gifted to her 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and various community organizations. Each stitch carries her love and care. 

Throughout her life, Anna Marie embraced activity and sport. From volleyball, softball, and basketball in her youth to bowling leagues as a married woman, and finally biking and swimming in her vintage years, she demonstrated that vitality doesn't dim with age. Her thrill-seeking spirit never waned—she rode roller coasters at Lagoon well into her 70s! 

She served her community in many ways—as a bank teller, mail carrier, and devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her service as Relief Society President, Young Women's leader, primary teacher, and alongside her husband at the Ogden temple reflected her deep faith and commitment to her Heavenly Father and Savior. 

When family lived far away, she expanded her heart, becoming a surrogate grandmother to countless children through her church, proving that love knows no biological boundaries. 

Anna Marie shared a special bond with her mother, Rosa Benincosa. In a beautiful full circle, Anna Marie eventually returned to the house where she was mostly raised to be with her mother. For 11 years, they lived together, their days filled with shenanigans and laughter, often joined by Anna Marie's sisters for countless adventures and crafts. They dedicated years to family history and have been able to fill out their family tree for centuries. She served as the caretaker of her mom, her husband, and her family home. This home, filled with generations of memories, was where she completed her journey. 

Anna Marie is preceded in death by her parents, her brother William Jr. "Skip", her husband Gary, and two sons, Bradley Jay and Dennis. She leaves behind three of her children, their spouses, 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, her siblings and their partners, and a community touched by her generosity and spirit. 

While we gather to celebrate her remarkable life, we can almost hear her laugh and see her mischievous smile. We find comfort knowing she has been reunited with her eternal companion Gary, her sons, and family members who preceded her, while the love and joy she cultivated remain with us always as she explores new trails beyond. As her loved ones, we hope that her contagious positivity will continue and would leave you with Ree's parting advice, "remember who you are, who you represent, and act accordingly." 

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 10, 2025 at the Clearfield 7th Ward, 350 Vine Street, Clearfield, UT. Viewing from 10:00-11:30am, family prayer 11:30am-12:00pm, followed by the service at 12:00pm. Graveside dedication will take place at Memorial Lakeview Cemetery, Bountiful, UT. Flowers may be sent to the church building.

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