Anna Maria Chavira, age 69, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, at Monument Health in Rapid City, South Dakota.

On February 21, 1956, at Japanese Hospital in Los Angeles, California, Anna made her initial debut into the world. An only child, raised by her mother, Elvira Meza, and stepfather, Anna spent her formative years playing basketball, volleyball, and softball, before graduating Class of 1974 from Alhambra High School. Anna's eventual relocation to the Midwest landed on her radar during the mid-80s in her travel adventures with a longtime friend, Sandy, who had roots there. Los Angeles in the early 90's was a tumultuous time for those who lived there, so it was then that Anna decided to trade her life in the city for the Black Hills and all its charms. It was there she built for herself a strong community of friends who would become her lifelong family, including her chosen siblings, Doug Lauritsen and Joan Bender. Camping and water sports at Angostura Lake became the backbone of every summer, with years of memories too numerous to count.

In November of 2011, over dark beers at the Colonial House, Anna met Andrea Stensland, with whom she shared a loving partnership. Andrea brought with her four children who loved Anna like their own mother. On August 26, 2017, in a backyard ceremony surrounded by family and friends, Anna and Andrea married. Anna was a fierce planner, be it for travel, hosting parties, and watching sports, insisting that Andrea join in predicting Superbowl winners and completing basketball brackets every year.

Those who knew Anna remember her as a talented cook, a thoughtful problem solver, and the source of the warmest hugs. She was known for her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit, facing health challenges with courage and dignity. Anna left this life on her own terms, surrounded by love. She will be deeply missed.