Vada Anderson

Vada Francis Anderson, 62, of South Haven passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, May 29.

She was born on May 30, 1946 in South Haven to Dominick and Gwendolyn Tragna. Vada was a graduate of South Haven High School, Kendall School of Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she also received her Masters Degree in Art from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her first teaching job was for the Covert Public School for 3 years. Vada moved on to Watervliet High School and was Director of Art Education for 34 years. The staff of Watervliet High School remembers her as a well loved teacher who over the years taught the lives of thousands of students in a positive way. Kids respond to her because they knew she cared about them personally and she was able to bring out the best in each. Whether they had talent, students remember what they learned from “Miss Vada” about art and life. Her legacy at Watervliet schools is her love of and devotion to “her Kids.”

Vada is survived by her beloved cat – Punkey. Her brother – Joseph (Darlene) Tragna and sister – Gwendolyn (Terry) Hinz, 6 nieces and nephews, 9 great nieces and nephews.

Arrangements to be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to South Haven Area Senior Services, St. Basil Catholic Church, or WEA Scholarship Fund Attn: Cheri Feed at Watervliet Public Schools. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven 637-0333.