Anita M. Hilmoe
November 12, 1937 - April 19, 2022
Anita Hilmoe, loving wife, dedicated mother, doting grandmother,little sister and trusted friend to many, left this world on April 19, 2022.
Anita was the blushing bride of Robert E. "Bob" Hilmoe (March 13, 2001); survived as the dear mother of Lisa and Robert L. "Bob" Hilmoe; daughter-in-law Kristen and son-in-law Mark; beloved grandmother to Kyle, Jimmy, Heather, Kevin and Fiona; beloved sister to Lawrence "Bud" Gray and Patricia "Pat" Gray, sister-in-law Clella Gray; proceeded in life by her sister Peggy Anderson and brother James Gray. Treasured daughter of the late Leanor and Alonzo Gray, Daughter in-law of the late Elizabeth and Norm Vanier.
Anita will be dearly missed by all in her family, including many nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends and co-workers, for many years to come.
A third generation San Franciscan, Anita was an alumnus of Abraham Lincoln High School in San Francisco, attended both San Francisco State University and University of California -Berkeley, earning a B.A. in Education and Master's Degree in Counseling.
While raising Lisa and Bob, Anita worked full-time as an educator and counselor in the Jefferson School district in San Mateo County for most of her adult working life. Anita is fondly remembered by multi-generations of students at Jefferson High School in Daly City.
Though primarily a dedicated mother and teacher, Anita also knew how to enjoy life with her husband and large circle of friends. Hosting Beatles parties and many get togethers, she danced and laughed and lived life fully. Large picnics were frequent and full of barbecue and sunshine and volleyball. Monday night was dedicated to bridge for over 40 years, and Anita also found time to enjoy crossword puzzles, film noir and murder mysteries.
Anita enjoyed her long summers, often spending weeks in the Sierra Buttes area around Downieville. First tent-camping, then renting cabins, she and Robert finally purchased their own cabin in Sierra City. Many friends and family visited to enjoy their hospitality and to absorb the peace and inspiration that the forest, rivers and lakes provide.
The young family also took many adventurous trips to Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and an epic camping trip all the way to Lake Louise, British Columbia. Once the kids grew up, Anita expanded her horizons by travelling throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Mexico, including the exotic archeological sites of Chitzen Itza, Teoteoacan and Uxmal. One of her most cherished trips was to Ireland with her daughter Lisa.
Anita always prided herself on a warm and welcoming home. Every Easter and most Mother's Days were enjoyed by her large family and friends at her home in San Bruno. Christmas dinners were filled with delicious food, laughter and the ever-present warm crackling fire. There was a magical aspect to those gatherings, and all who attended left with a lighter heart. Anita will be remembered for her warm heart, sincerity and calming influence to family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, friends of Anita are encouraged to donate to the Hilmoe English Scholarship GWHS Alumni Association P.O. Box 590605 San Francisco CA 94159.
All family and friends of Anita are welcome to join the service honoring her life on Saturday May 7, 2022 at 12 Noon at Duggan's Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City, California.