The city of Des Moines is mourning the loss of Anna Bjorneby, a cherished community leader and friend whose legacy of service and love will forever be remembered.
A memorial celebrating her extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, from 1–5 p.m. at the Des Moines Yacht Club.
Born on May 17, 1937, Anna passed away at age 87 on Oct. 26, 2024, just one month shy of her 68th wedding anniversary with her devoted husband, BJ. The two met in Bremerton while she was a senior in high school, came to Burien in 1962, and built their house in Des Moines in 1968 after Sea-Tac Airport bought their house in Burien due to the second runway.
They made Des Moines their lifelong home, embodying a true partnership in love, life, and service. Together, they owned and operated Bjorneby’s Auto Shop for decades, a business that later became CarStar and remains a family-run operation under the care of third generation grandson Kyle.
A force of nature in the Des Moines community, Anna was instrumental in resurrecting the Waterland Festival Parade during the 1980s and 1990s, a pivotal effort that brought recognition and joy to the city. Her leadership extended to chairing the Des Moines 50th Anniversary Parade in 2009, showcasing her tireless dedication to celebrating the city’s heritage and fostering unity.
Her contributions did not go unnoticed. She was honored with the prestigious Des Moines Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her lasting impact on the community she so deeply loved.
Her energy, passion, and commitment to volunteerism serve as a timeless inspiration for others to give back.
Her husband BJ reflected on their remarkable journey together:
“She was my partner in everything. Her love for Des Moines and its people was unmatched.”
The Jan. 4 memorial will serve as an opportunity for the community to honor her legacy, share memories, and celebrate a life that enriched so many.
For those who knew her, she was more than a volunteer—she was a beacon of kindness, strength, and community spirit.
Her loss leaves a void, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Photos
Below are some photos of Anna through the years, courtesy her family – click arrows or swipe on images to view slideshow:
Everyone at South King Media sends their deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Anna – she was a dynamo who left a lasting impact on everyone in the region.
