Anna Vanderburg

Anna Hazel Vanderburg, age 86, passed away at her home in Arlee on August 2, 2025.

Anna Hazel was born at home in Arlee to Jerome and Agnes Vanderburg. She was raised in Arlee and attended Arlee Schools, graduating in 1959. Anna was a full-blood tribal member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

She married Robert Bunce on May 24, 1972. Anna worked for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in various departments, including Early Childhood Services and Arlee Schools. She retired in the early 2000s.

Anna had a love for the arts and was talented in many crafts. She enjoyed beading, arts and crafts, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and could draw and paint just about anything. She was the artist behind the Arlee Warriors logo, winning an art contest for her design, which continues to be a proud symbol of the community. She also loved riding horses and found peace in being out on the land with them. Anna was generous beyond measure, always willing to give her time, care, or creations to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerome and Agnes, her husband Robert Bunce, and her brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her children: Allan Bunce (Rochelle) and John Bunce. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Nakeya Senecal (Mason), Shayna Bunce (Gordon), Marsheelle Bunce (Lomah), Leeaisha Bunce (Lucas), Louis Bunce, Patience Bunce, Adaire Bigbeaver (Erik), and Linus Bigbeaver; and by her sister, Lucy Vanderburg. She had 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A wake will begin Sunday evening, August 3, 2025, at the Arlee Community Center. A Rosary will be held Tuesday, August 5 at 8:00 p.m., and the funeral will take place Wednesday, August 6 at 11:00 a.m., also at the Arlee Community Center. Burial will follow at the Jocko Cemetery, with dinner to follow back at the community center.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Tammy Matt, Margit of Tribal Health, and Partners in Home Care for their kindness, support, and dedicated care.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Anna Vanderburg, please visit our floral store.