Anna Maria Kanters, age 82 of Massillon, departed this life Sunday, April 21, 2013 at Amherst Meadows Care Center surrounded by her family.

Born September 3, 1930, in Boekel, Netherlands, to the late Jacobus and Maria (Linders) van der Laar. In 1956 Anna and her husband Andrew came to America.

Anna was employed by the Timken family for 16 years. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Altar Rosary Society, and Ladies Red Hat Society. She enjoyed participating with the activities group at Amherst Meadows Senior Apartments.

Anna will be remembered by her family, friends, and neighbors for her kindness and selflessness. To her children, she was not just a home-maker but a heart-maker. Her generosity of spirit will be greatly missed.

Anna is survived by her children, Christina (Michael) Orosz of Springhill, FL, Maria (Brian) Linvill of Richmond, VA, Andrew (Cathy) Kanters of Massillon, James (Sandy) Kanters of Massillon, Christopher (Carol) Kanters of North Lawrence, Helen (Greg) Huntington of Hamilton, Mary Ann (Albert) Cook of Poland, Willy (Rayetta) Kanters of Massillon; brothers, John van der Laar of Helena, OH, Albert van der Laar of Netherlands; twin sister, Stiena Hendriks of Netherlands; 19 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and many extended family members in the United States, Canada and the Netherlands.

In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years Andrew, and her two brothers, Pete van der Laar and Theo van der Laar.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 26, 2013 from 5-8 P.M. at Heitger Funeral Home - Massillon Chapel, 639 First St NE., 330-833-3248.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, April 27, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, at 10:00 A.M. with Rev. Edward Gretchko celebrant.

Burial at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens in North Canton.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Amherst Meadows Care Center and Harbor Light Hospice for their kindness and compassion while caring for Anna.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 726 First St NE, Massillon, OH 44646 or American Cancer Society, 525 North Broad St, Canfield, OH 44406.

Please leave condolences at www.heitger.com

Heitger Funeral Service - MASSILLON CHAPEL 330-833-3248

Massillon's Oldest Family Owned Business