Anita Theresa Marie Wetherelt, age 87, passed away on Monday, May 10, 2021 at the Campbell County Hospital in Gillette, Wyoming.
Anita was born on April 14, 1934 to Louis and Anna (Caretto) Trucano at Boyes, Montana at their family ranch. She was attended to by the local midwife. Anita joined a family of three other siblings: Jack Mills, Catherine Trucano Giacometto, and Charles Trucano. She was the last surviving member of the family that settled in the Boyes, Montana area. Anita grew up in an Italian Catholic family home where at that time the primary language spoken was Italian. She spent much of her early years running the creek with the Capra children, riding horses, smoking alfalfa and enjoying many other adventures.
When Anita went to first grade she did not know English so her new language began at the Boyes School. She spent her primary years at the Boyes School with the many family and friends nearby. When her high school years began she moved to Lead, South Dakota, living with her aunt, Kate Caretto Manseau and attending her freshman year of school there. The following three years of school were spent at Broadus High School. Boarding with neighbors and friends during the week Anita would return to the family ranch on the weekends. Her dad was often her driver for the 21-mile one-way commute on Friday and Sunday evenings. Anita’s grandmother, Teresa Caretto, also resided in the family home, passing away in May 1952 just prior to Anita’s high school graduation.
After high school Anita worked at the local drug store for Step & Ruby Holt and later for a short time at the Soil Conservation Service office.
During Anita’s later high school years she developed a friendship and love for Wayne Wetherelt, Sr. This love was sealed in marriage on December 31, 1955 and would continue for 65 plus years through thick and thin. She had a new family with all of the Wetherelt clan and loved them all as her own. During the early years Anita and Wayne boarded many nieces and nephews, including: Vivian Mills DeLeo, Jack (Slug) and Steve Mills, Louis, Lawrence and Robert (Bob) Giacometto, Rick and Randy Trucano and also Mike Capra. For these young people Wayne and Anita’s was a secure and safe place away from home.
In 1958 Anita and Wayne welcomed their first child, Brenda, then in 1959 Wayne Jr., 1961 Sheri and 1966 Melody. As the children entered the world new love, compassion, faith and strength made this woman what she was, “One of a Kind”. The early trials with Brenda’s health problems and eventual loss of sight helped to form her to be a pillar of strength. Anita never lost sight of what the communities of Boyes and Broadus, along with family and friends, did for her family during these trying times with Brenda.
In the mid-1960s Anita and Wayne purchased some land and began their adventures in the motel industry. With many good years at the motel during the oil boom she employed several young high school girls and women in the Broadus community. Anita took care of the daily tasks of running the motel as well as teaching her children how to work and do a good job. In the mid-1970s Anita worked along with Wayne at the automotive parts store and then later at the lumber yard store while still maintaining the family home and raising four kids.
After leaving the work force Anita remained active in the community, encouraging and supporting her children and helping with the grandchildren. She was a wonderful wife, mother, gramma, sister, aunt and friend to so many — becoming “Mom”, “Grandma” and “Auntie” to many of her children’s, grandchildren’s and niece’s and nephew’s friends.
Anita was one of the founding members of the Nursing Home Committee that pursued and achieved the goal of building the Powder River Manor in Broadus. She was fiercely staunch in this effort; and any effort she believed in, she was never afraid to stand up to anyone and speak her mind. Sometimes our mother was known to be very vocal and our dad would look at her and say, “Nita”. Other committees and boards she was involved with were: Eastern Montana Industries, Tri-County Special Education, Valley View Cemetery and St. David’s Altar Society. With every board or committee she put all her heart in it and worked tirelessly for the benefit of others.
Through her lifetime some of the fun activities she was involved with were bowling, golfing, crocheting, painting ceramics, watching her daughters play softball, watching the grandchildren with their activities and attending Bowling and Golf Calcutta Auctions. Anita was such a good sport at bidding up people for the benefit of the event – liking to win as well!
In a break from the daily work we could hear her say “It’s Five O’Clock somewhere”. That was her meaning that it was time to enjoy her favorite alcoholic beverage of a shot of Black Velvet and water backed. Mom was also known to sneak away for a cigarette even though she had “quit” many years ago. While having fun at a dance or gathering Mom was known to at a whim’s notice dance on a table or two. Many times after a Saturday night outing of dancing, visiting, etc. the party would continue at the family home for an early morning breakfast. Her children would wake to a house full of friends and/or family. Throughout our lifetime we would hear stories of the many escapades Mom and Dad were involved with. The tradition was carried on with Sheri and Melody often bringing friends home for breakfast after proms, dances or the bar closing. Mom and Dad would get out of bed joining us for food, fun and laughter.
Family and friends remained an important centerpiece of Anita’s life. Each person, young or old, was important to her. Anita also had a love for birds, bird houses, and keeping her yard in good shape. Her house and yard became a collection point of “witches” through the years. Often sons-in-law, friends and neighbors were to blame but she took it all in magnificent stride and with good humor.
Through it all Anita kept her faith and remained true to God and her Church. Having grown up with church in homes, community schools, and the local church she was honored to be served by two special local priests, Fr. Patrick Berther and Fr. Chester Poppa, for over 70 years of her life. She would argue with them and give them a piece of her mind, but kept her love and respect for them, her faith and the Church.
Lastly, this lady left a legacy of afghans to friends, family and through her many donations of afghans for raffles or fundraisers. Anita was always working on an afhgan, even as her health and hands deteriorated she kept persevering. On Mother’s Day Anita gave an order for more yarn to her niece, Roxy Giacometto Killens, to be picked up the next day. Unfortunately that order could not be fulfilled as God had other plans for Anita. As we walk through the house we can find four different afghans that were in progress and destined for some special person.
Anita was preceded in death by her grandmother, Teresa Caretto, her parents Louis and Anna Trucano, her in-laws Norman and Mildred Wetherelt, brother Jack Mills and Margaret Mills Schmaus, sister Catherine and John Giacometto, and brother Charles and Theoline Trucano as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.
Anita is survived by her husband, Wayne. Children: Brenda Wetherelt (Ken Ketterling), Wayne (Serena) Wetherelt, Jr., Sheri (Don) McDowell, and Melody (Colin) Hanzlik. Sister-in-law: Patsy Wetherelt Stephens. Grandchildren: Jason (Maddey) Ketterling, Courtney (Chris) Sheriff, Carrie (Rowdy) Anderson, Shannon (Carson) Breipohl, Derek Knowshisgun, Tiffany Bad Bear, Peyton Bad Bear, Trent McDowell, Dan (Amber) McDowell, Derek (Sam) McDowell, Tyson (Tausha) McDowell, Morgan (Zac) Hanzlik and Hailey Hanzlik. There are also 14 great grandchildren and numerous special nieces and nephews.
Should friends desire donations can be made to Powder River Manor, Rolling Hills Golf Course or a memorial of your choice.
Service Schedule
Visitation
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Friday May 14, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Rosary & Vigil
6:00 PM
Friday May 14, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Mass
11:00 AM
Saturday May 15, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Rite of Committal
After Funeral Mass
Saturday May 15, 2021
Valley View Cemetery
Broadus, Montana 59317
Service Schedule
Visitation
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Friday May 14, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Rosary & Vigil
6:00 PM
Friday May 14, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Mass
11:00 AM
Saturday May 15, 2021
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson Street
Broadus, Montana 59317
Rite of Committal
After Funeral Mass
Saturday May 15, 2021
Valley View Cemetery
Broadus, Montana 59317
Share
Walter and ArLynn says
Wayne, Brenda, Wayne Jr., Sheri and Melody and families. We are so sorry.
Tom and Judy Collins says
We are so sorry to hear about Anita. Total surprise. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Jack Fleming says
Always enjoyed Anita’s friendly bantering when I would work a funeral in Broadus. I could never get the best of her. My condolences.
Bub and Carlene Gaskill says
Condolences to the Wetherelt family.
Cathy sowers says
Our prayers and our thoughts go with your family
Clark & Cathy Sowers & families
tammy schoenbeck says
oh Gramm Nita you will be so missed, loved being your neighbor, we had some great laughs, hope you remembered to take your binoculars along, RIP dear lady
Cindy Burris says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. An amazing lady.Dave and Cindy Burris
Janet Rice says
My condolences to Anita’s family. Enjoyed visiting with her. She was always so upbeat. Nothing much got her down. Go with God sweet lady.
Bert & Nancy Stoddard says
Anita was one of the first people to greet us in Broadus. Of course, it was interesting and upbeat. She was such an interesting and a constant source of laughter. She will be missed by all. Prayers to the family.
Bernice Rolfson says
Anita had been a long time friend. I have watched the kids grow up and Dick and Wayne worked together . She was always there with a smile and a helping hand when needed. May she go on to her next life in peace. God be with each of you.
Jaci phillips says
So very sorry to hear this. She was one of a kind beautiful lady. Loved to tease her about dancing on the table. I am sure in her younger days she did! Sending love and hugs to Wayne and family. She will be missed
Carmen Knutson says
My heart is breaking to hear this. Anita was such a great soul, I will treasure my bird house with the green roof on it! My love, hugs, thoughts and prayers are with the family and the community that will greatly miss her!
Bill & Judy Clampet, Tammy, Jody & Colin says
Oh Anita!! You will be so missed. Loved always keeping in touch with you and Wayne. Our hearts are sad. Please God, wrap Your Holy arms around the family.
Larry and Dawn says
To Wayne and families, We are so sorry to hear about Anita’s passing. She and her crazy, fun antics will certainly be missed. So glad I got to know her. Larry and Dawn
Edna Morey says
Wayne and family. I am so sorry for your loss. She will be greatly missed. Charlie and Edna
arlen miller says
So sorry to hear of the loss of your mother; We always enjoyed our visit with your family , she will be missed by many, Thoughts and prayers for your family
Sue says
I am so sorry to hear this news. She was a truly great lady. But with such humor. She will be missed by all who knew her. Prayers to you all.
Sylvia Zimmer says
So sorry for your loss… hold the good memories close to your heart…
Patricia Franklin says
Wayne and family, so sorry for your loss, Anita will be missed!
Gerald & Janet Himelspach says
Our sincerest sympathy, Wayne and family. So sorry to hear of Anita’s passing, may all your memories sustain you.
Sherm Weimer says
Anita served on the Board of Directors for Eastern Montana Industries for many years, helping to promote services for individuals with disabilities throughout southeastern Montana. Her support and guidance was invaluable, and she will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with Wayne and her family.
Carol Mellor Hanrahan says
Dear Wayne, Brenda, Wayne Jr, Sheri & Melody ……
I was so saddened to hear of Anit’s passing. Anita was a friend to everyone, with a spunky personality, and sassy humor! She will leave a void in the lives of everyone that knew her …… and, especially her family. Rest easy dear friend! ~Carol~
William & Melissa Collins says
Anita was a special lady and having her in the community we were/are better for it. Thoughts and prayers as you celebrate her life and her passing, cherishing the memories and being together as a family.
Bonnie Bogner Sprague says
Dear Wayne, Brenda, Wayne Jr, Sheri and Melody, I am so sorry to hear of your loss! I loved Anita as so many did in the community. She was also a great friend of Moms. She will be missed by many & especially by all of you! Keep your wonderful memories they do help! Sending love and hugs to all of you for peace!
Veda Hurst says
So sorry, to say she was one of a kind, oh ya. But she had a heart of gold and a smile that will sure be missed. RIP sweet lady. I wished I could have seen there faces when she was at the pearly gate. Love and prayers to her family.
Mary Jane Robinson says
Anita was a joy and a blessing to my family and so many more. I can hear in my mind Anita and my mom laughing and giggling over anything and everything. I can picture her eyes dancing over some fun story and snapping over the injustices. What a fun and wonderful lady. My heart hurts with yours.
Norm & Julie Samuelson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family. She was a very special lady.
Norm and Julie Samuelson
Loren Williams says
Wayne and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Lots of good memories.
Loren Williams, San Antonio TX
SALLY A. BORLA says
MY SINCERE SYMPATHY TO ALL OF ANITA’S FAMILY–I THOUGHT I POSTED SOMETHING EARLIER–SORRY TO BE LATE BUT I WILL BE AT THE SERVICE. YES, ANITA WAS ONE OF A KIND BUT ALWAYS FRIENDLY AND HAD A WONDERFUL SENSE OF HUMOR–THINK MAYBE SHE TOOK AFTER HER DAD LOUIE AND HIS QUICK WIT. I KNOW YOU ALL HAVE MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES AND I SO REMEMBER MY FOLKS TELLING HOW JUNIOR CAPRA AND ANITA HELPED OUR GRANDPARENTS AFTER THEY LOST THEIR SON CHARLES. WE NEVER FORGET OUR PRECIOUS FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS FROM THE GOOD? OLE DAYS. GOD BLESS EVERYONE
Bill and Ranae Lancaster says
As so many have said, Anita was truly one of a kind. Her wit and humor were always such a joy. Our hearts are with the entire family at this difficult time.
Don Lancaster says
Wayne and kids, sorry to hear of Anita’s passing. As you can tell from the comments Anita was a very special person to a lot of people. I have fond memories of Wayne and Anita behind the counter at “NAPA” when making a parts run. I learned early to not match wits with Anita, she verbally took me to the woodshed more than once. All in good fun of course. Can’t you just hear her giving god a bit of her mind!
Shilo Karen Landen Logan Lucas Mikayla Capp and Whiskers the cat. says
Wayne and family. Anita saved our cat a few years ago when he caught a ride to the Cashway on accident, she fed him and took him in!. Ever since that day, my kids really appreciated her, and we thought of her often. Anita made Lucas one of her famous afghans after his cancer journey. We will forever remember her and her generosity. Heaven just got a little brighter, and a bit more fun!
Judy Denson-Keller says
My Heart, thoughts, prayers, and hugs go out to the Wetherelt family at this difficult time. I had the opportunity to be able to watch the video and memorial tribute. Thank you so much for sharing! The laughter and happy memories were so ANITA. I feel THAT’S WHAT SHE WANTED. Wayne Jr., your eulogy to your mother was awesome. I know it wasn’t easy for you, but you hung in there a gave it your all. May God Bless all of you and may Anita rest in peace. I have a feeling she is having fun dancing with the angels. 😉
Joni Hopkins-Schmitt says
I feel so grateful that I got to see and visit with her last 4th of July. My parents thought the world of her and the whole Wetherelt clan. Sincere prayers to her family and friends.