Obituary of Anna Roberta McCann Foster

Anna Roberta McCann Foster passed away October 5, 2004 at Evergreen Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Olympia, Washington after succumbing to an incurable brain tumor. Roberta, or Bobbie, as she was known to her many friends, was born March 19, 1921 in Centerville, Iowa to Robert and Anna McCann. Roberta spent most of her childhood in Cheyenne where she graduated from Cheyenne High School. She attended Greeley State Teacher's College in Greeley, Colorado, where one of her favorite teachers was the young author James Michener. It was after college at a USO dance in Cheyenne that Roberta met her husband, Charles Foster, an army soldier stationed at Fort Warren for training. They were married at Fort Sill, Oklahoma on September 4, 1943. Following Charles' deployment to Europe, Roberta returned to Cheyenne where she taught and also gave birth to son, Charles, Jr. After WW II the couple reunited in Peshastin, Washington where they embarked on a career with an apple and pear orchard. A daughter, Patricia, was born there. In 1956 Roberta returned to teaching at Peshastin-Dryden Elementary school as a first grade teacher. She taught in the district for 24 years at various assignment levels where she especially enjoyed teaching children the joys and wonders of reading. When they retired, Bobbie and Chuck traveled throughout the western United States. They were active in Eastern Star and made many numerous friends in Square and Round Dancing. Husband, Charles, preceded Roberta in death in January 2004. Roberta is survived by son, Charles, Jr. and partner, Katie Salo of Reno, Nevada; and daughter, Patricia and son-in-law John Ancock of Olympia, Washington. Also surviving are grandchildren Brian Foster of Seattle, Washington, Kristine Ancock of Olympia, and Ben and wife Lisa Ancock of Benton City, Washington. The family will hold a private family graviside ceremony for their Mother and Grandmother. Roberta's family will host an open house at the family residence in Cashmere on November 13, 2004 from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. for those who wish to remember Roberta with special memories, conversation, and light refreshment. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 102454, Atlanta, GA 30368-2454 or to the Arthritis Foundation, PO Box 7669, Atlanta, GA 30357-0669.