Anneta Berdeen Lawrence's Obituary
Anneta Berdeen Caster Lawrence (Berdeen), a woman of remarkable interests, intelligence, and vivacity, passed away peacefully at the age of 91, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, after assuring her daughters that she was fine, just fine. Berdeen’s journey through life was as colorful and vibrant as she was, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Born on February 6, 1933, to Rose and Myron Caster, the second of eleven children, Berdeen’s adventurous spirit was evident from the start. Graduating in 1951 from Decatur County High School in Oberlin, KS, she set out to discover the world.
Berdeen’s romantic spirit led her on a journey marked by love and companionship. She married Roy Lawrence, in 1956 and settled into a life of laughter, chaos and many children. Though her path was not without its share of bumps and detours, Berdeen always approached life with optimism and a sense of adventure.
Berdeen was blessed with seven children, Charles (Chuck) Robert (Bobby), Betty, Ruthe, Eva, Penny and Larry. During the challenges of raising a large family, Berdeen proved her resilience by becoming a nurse. She worked many years in ophthalmology and thrilled her children with being the elementary school nurse on Wednesday afternoons. She was keenly intelligent with a sense of humor that could keep up with her Caster clan, known for their antics. In the 70’s Berdeen sold make-up to earn extra income and she was quite good at it. An accomplished seamstress, she opened a fur store in the 1980s and sold her own creations. When her family needed her support, she returned swiftly to nursing to provide that stability.
Known for many talents, Berdeen was a self-taught artist, musician, writer and enjoyed social dancing. An avid reader, she could quickly devour books. One of her favorite sayings was that she could go anywhere on earth by way of a good book. Known for her inimitable style, Berdeen was never one to shy away from the spotlight. If an occasion presented itself, she adorned herself in furs and jewels happily. Every day was an opportunity to shine.
While Berdeen’s youth may have been marked by folly, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery in her adult life. With courage and determination, she faced her challenges head-on, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Berdeen played the organ for her church, participated eagerly in Bible study, and went on to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail with her son Robert while in her 70’s. Her transformation is a testament to the power of redemption and second chances.
Berdeen leaves behind son Robert Gilbert, daughters Eva Studebaker and Penny Flournoy, sisters Lois Bare, Donna Driewer, Linda Senff and brother Dallas Caster. She was preceded in death by her husband Roy Lawrence, her daughters Betty Gilbert and Ruthe Thogerson, and sons Charles (Chuck) Leitner and Larry Lawrence.
Berdeen is survived by her loving family as well as a host of dear friends. She will be sadly missed by 17 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren.
While we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.
Cremation has been requested. A celebration of Berdeen’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church in Fredonia. Memorials have been suggested to the Fredonia Senior Center in lieu of Flowers. Memorials may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home 420 S. 20th St., P.O. Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736
What’s your fondest memory of Anneta Berdeen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Anneta Berdeen?
Share a story where Anneta Berdeen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Anneta Berdeen you’ll never forget.
How did Anneta Berdeen make you smile?