In loving memory of

Anita Oliver
March 10, 1963 - December 12, 2021

Anita J. Oliver, age 58, of Portsmouth, RI passed away on December 12, 2021 surrounded by loving and dear friends.

Anita was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on March 10, 1963. Anita earned her Bachelor's degree in Commerce from the University of Alberta and her MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas. Anita grew up in western Canada and made her way through Canada and the United States while growing her career. She lived in Texas, Colorado, and finally settling on the water in Rhode Island. Anita ascended in her successful and robust career as National Accounts Manager, Business Development for Growth Channel, and Director of National Accounts for prestigious consumer products companies such as RJR Nabisco Canada, HJ Heinz Canada, HJ Heinz US, Petmate/Aspen Food Products, and Hasbro. Anita made a thoughtful and deliberate decision to take her well established corporate skills to a non-profit organization. Her last role was with The United Way of Rhode Island as Women United Manager.

Anita was committed to giving back through her passion for dogs. She volunteered with Westside German Shepherd Rescue, Always Adopt, and The Potter League for Animals.

Anita was the beloved dog mom to Hobo, Buddy, Cody Karma, Rugger, Annabelle, and Mattie who preceded her, and Charlie who proceeds her. She is the daughter of Alice and Gene Oliver of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Sister of Patty (Greg) Cortesi of Torrance, CA and Kathy (David) DaSilva of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Anita is the cherished sister-in-law of Leonard and Colleen Kula of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She is an aunt to three nieces and three nephews.

Anita will be celebrated in a private remembrance with close friends and family. Memorial contributions will be dedicated to hospice care and graciously accepted by Hope Hospice, Hulitar Hospice Center, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904.

Tributes

Liz wrote on Dec 16, 2021:

"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together. It's time to rest Anita. I hope you're reunited with all your 4 legged children at the Rainbow Bridge. You will be dearly missed."

Ester E Mitchell wrote on Dec 15, 2021:

"Anita and I have a long history of friendship having known each other more than 35 years. Through our undergrad university days, skiing, travels in Europe, career moves, and relationships, she has always been a constant in my life. We?ve shared laughs, secrets, and tears of both sadness and joy. When I think of Anita, I think of strength, grace, courage, and overwhelming generosity. I will miss you my dear friend."

Lori DiMatteo wrote on Dec 14, 2021:

"To Anita?s family and close friends, my deepest sympathies for you loss. I had the pleasure of working with Anita at United Way and will miss her. She had such grace and strength. "

Cristina Amedeo -United Way of RI wrote on Dec 14, 2021:

"Thank you Anita for your many contributions to this world, to our community, to United Way of Rhode Island. Thank you for your beautiful smile, your shoulder, your grace, kindness and generosity. Rest in Heavenly Peace. I will see you in Forever. Cristina "