Anna Oaten's Obituary
Anna Oaten, 83, of Cutler Bay, Florida, passed away on July 6th, 2025. She was born on February 19th, 1942, in Stanisic, Yugoslavia (former) to Josef and Marianne (Eberhardt) Englander. At a tender age, she lost both of her parents during World War II and was raised by her loving brother Johannes Englander and her grandmother (Oma) Maria Eberhardt.
Anna's dream as a young girl was to come to America. When she met and married Army private Lester J. Oaten who was then stationed in Germany, her dream became reality. Her role as a young mother and, ultimately, an Officer’s wife suited her. Army life brought its challenges such as the long absences of her husband and the many moves all over the country. She spoke proudly of her exciting travels and the many friendships developed over the years.
Throughout the years Anna had worked a variety of jobs, but it wasn’t until she earned her Real Estate license that she found her calling. A stickler for honesty and details, Anna worked hard and built a successful career. Just as she had gained amazing, lasting friendships as an Army wife, the same was true in her Real Estate career. She found a garden of friends that she loved and admired.
When she wasn't selling houses, Anna was active in the German-American club, the Elks, a pool aerobics class, and volunteering at Fairchild Gardens. With her Army background and deep love of this country and respect for our veterans and soldiers, it was natural that she gravitated towards activities that assisted these service men and women. She volunteered with the American Legion serving on their Ladies Auxiliary, assisted with fundraising, and by attending military and veteran celebrations.
Anna's life was a tapestry woven with threads of family, duty, service, laughter, and love. Her strength, wisdom, and devotion served as a guiding light for her daughters and friends.
She is predeceased by her husband of 28 years, Lester J. Oaten, and her parents Josef and Marianne Englander and her grandmother Maria Eberhardt.
She is survived by her daughters, Diana Lalani and Martina Oaten. In Germany, her brother Johannes Englander and sister-in-law Irmgard Englander and their children Andreas Englander, wife Esther, as well their daughters Lisa Marie and Fiona. Her niece Carolyn Ramsey and nephew Karl Oaten also survive.
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, September 19, at Holy Rosary Saint Richard Catholic Church at 11 am. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the American Legion Auxiliary in Palmetto Bay at 12:30. Family and friends are welcome to attend both or either event.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 133 for the Girls State program at Post #133, Palmetto Bay. Checks s/b made out to “ALA Unit 133”. Mail them to: ALA Unit 133,16401 SW 90th Avenue, Palmetto Bay, FL 33157. Zelle can be used at https://[email protected] or cash accepted at the American Legion facility. Please be sure they are noted as “in memory of Anna Oaten” so that the funds are earmarked for the Girls State program.
"Precious Jewel, you glowed, you shine like a rare diamond, reflecting all the good things in the world" -Maya Angelou.
What’s your fondest memory of Anna?
What’s a lesson you learned from Anna?
Share a story where Anna's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Anna you’ll never forget.
How did Anna make you smile?