Anita L. Van Gelder

January 19, 1939 - January 6, 2020

ANITA LOUISE VAN GELDER – Tallahassee Anita Van Gelder, 80, died unexpectedly January 6, 2020, at the Big Bend Hospice House in Tallahassee, Florida. She was born on January 19, 1939, in Bronx, NY, the daughter of William Breuning and Bertha Breuning. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, and her brother, Ronald Breuning. Anita is survived by her daughter, Kristine Kissell; her son, John Van Gelder; and four grandchildren. Anita graduated from high school, class of 1957. Following graduation, she attended secretarial school and soon married John Van Gelder in 1961. Upon their divorce in 1976, Anita moved to Ocala, Florida, to fulfil a dream of having a “ranch” for animals to reside. When asked just how many animals she had, her response was always a vague “enough.” She loved animals (all kinds) and felt a kinship with them. Upon retiring, Anita moved to Tallahassee, Florida, to be closer to her daughter, her daughter’s husband, and their two children, Emily and Sarah. Anita loved to travel and had fond memories of Pine Mountain and the Animal Safari; as well as trips to Ashville, North Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; and elsewhere. She also enjoyed reading; doing puzzles; talking with friends, and eating in various restaurants and at the Kissell House. Anita was a devout Jehovah's Witness, and her faith provided comfort during her final days. Anita will be remembered for her kindness, honesty, singing, sweet disposition, and for always saying “What can I do?” when someone was in distress. She will be missed, more than words can describe.