Sister Clarita Anneken, 1919-2015
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Born January 18, 1919 in Latonia, Kentucky Entered St. Walburg Monastery August 15, 1935 Received habit, February 25, 1936 First Profession, June 28, 1937 Died September 8, 2015 |
Sister Clarita Anneken, OSB was born to John H. Anneken and Clara Robish Anneken on January 18, 1919 and given the name Dorothy Esther at her baptism. Dorothy was the second oldest of eight children—five girls and three boys—three of whom also became Benedictines, Sisters Gemma, Xavier and Juanita. Dorothy attended Villa Madonna Academy as a prep, then entered St. Walburg Monastery as a postulant on August 15, 1935 and on February 25, 1936 became a novice, receiving the name Sister Clarita. First profession followed in 1937, perpetual profession in1940. Sr. Clarita celebrated her silver jubilee in 1962, golden in 1987, diamond in 1997. She celebrated 75 years as a Benedictine Sister in 2012.
Sr. Clarita was well prepared for service in education which extended from 1941 until her retirement in 2005—sixty-four years. She received her AB from Villa Madonna College and her MA from Catholic University of America. Classes at Loyola University in Chicago, the University of Notre Dame, Marquette University, Montreal Language School and Laval University in Quebec prepared her for her service as principal and teacher at Holy Cross and St. Henry High Schools and Villa Madonna Academy.
Sr. Clarita’s many years in education endeared her to many—parents, students and teachers. Those she influenced maintained their association with her and expressed their gratitude throughout her lifetime. Sr. Clarita’s participation in community life continued into retirement and into her years in the infirmary. She had many friends who visited faithfully. Death came quietly before Evening Prayer on September 8, feast of the Nativity of Mary.
Sr. Clarita’s family was close-knit. Her mother died shortly before Sr. Clarita made profession in 1937, leaving her husband and eight children. Her sisters Rita, Sr. Gemma, Sr. Juanita and brothers Howard, Ed and Jack preceded her in death. Sr. Xavier is the last of the siblings. Her many nephews and nieces and their families have been strong supports. She is survived by the Benedictine community and many friends.