Anita Mae McCarville

Anita Mae McCarville (nee Gajewski) passed away peacefully into eternal life on Jan. 4, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born on Jan. 6, 1933, in Pulaski, Wis., she was the youngest of six children born to Felix and Martina Gajewski.

Anita’s early life was filled with joy and energy as she worked at her sister’s ice cream shop, cheered for her school and played trombone in the band.

Anita graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1955 and began her teaching career at a high school in Clintonville, Wis.

In November 1956, she met Raymond McCarville, and the two married on Aug. 3, 1957, at Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary Church. Together, they raised three daughters, Colleen, Charlene and Jeanne, in Thiensville, Wis.

Although Anita was a stay-at-home mom, she continued her passion for education by teaching night school. Later, after her children were grown, she taught business classes through Milwaukee Area Technical College.

Anita was an avid card player, enjoying games like bridge and sheepshead. She was also a member of both women’s and couple’s bowling leagues.

Throughout her adult life, she volunteered in several organizations, including the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus and Catholic Financial Life, and served as an election worker. Anita always stayed connected with her social circles, attending regular reunions and events. In her later years, she and Ray spent winters in warmer climates, where they indulged in their love for gambling and visited casinos during their travels.

A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, Anita’s devotion to the team and the sport of football was unparalleled. On game days, she was always ready, dressed in her signature green and gold attire — complete with sparkle. Her sense of style extended to her accessories, and she was often seen sporting a ring on every finger.

Anita’s ability to form lasting friendships was one of her most cherished qualities. She remembered people and made a point of genuinely getting to know them. Her grandchildren fondly remember her sense of humor, quirky sayings and her deep interest in their lives. She was especially proud of her eight great-grandchildren, whom she lovingly referred to as the “Little Greats.” She was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her ninth great-grandchild later this year. Her legacy of love and connection will live on through her family, who will share countless stories and memories for generations to come.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Eugene, Lucian, Rita, Margaret and Bernadette.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, Raymond McCarville; her daughters Colleen (Daniel) Tushaus, Charlene McCarville and Jeanne (David) Lambright; her grandchildren Katie (Chris) Steffe, Abby (Chris) Kendl, Samantha (Jonathan) Drum, Alex Link, Nick (Erin) Lambright and Elaina Lambright; and her great-grandchildren Finn, Ellis, Adaline, Esme, Archie, Lily, Jack and Scarlett.

Anita’s warm heart, generous spirit and unshakable devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A funeral service will be held in Anita’s honor at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1167 Washington Ave., Cedarburg, WI 53012. The family will receive relatives and friends in a period of visitation from 10 a.m. until the service.

Eernisse Funeral Home of Cedarburg is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.