Gärd Birgitta Anestad

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gärd Birgitta Anestad, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Born in Sweden to the late Gustav and Bertha (Larsson) Carlsson, Gärd lived a life full of passion and devotion to those she loved.

Gärd was known in her neighborhood for her regular walks and runs. She competed in 5K races well into her 70s and 80s often running with her daughter, son, and granddaughter. She proudly finished her last race just earlier this month, taking first place in her age group. For nearly 40 years, Gärd was also an enthusiastic golfer. She and her husband Erik drove across the United States twice, enjoying both sight seeing and many golf courses along the way. With these two trips as well as others, she has visited all 50 states.

Gärd’s love of the ocean and beaches provided her with peace and joy, whether on a walk along the beach or sitting and relaxing and enjoying a book while listening to the waves. She was an avid reader and often had both a book on her Nook and a handheld book that she was reading. A devoted fan of classical music, she had been a subscriber to the New York Philharmonic since 1984, and their performances brought her great pleasure throughout her life.

Above all, Gärd treasured her family. She will be remembered as a marvelous mother and grandmother, whose love and support enriched the lives of her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband, Erik Anestad; son, Johan Anestad; daughter, Marianne Anestad; grandchildren, Marcus and Rebecca Anestad; and sister, Ulla Widlund. She was preceded by her sister Lena Persson who passed in 1999 after a long battle with ovarian cancer.

A woman of strength, kindness, and warmth, Gärd will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to the New York Philharmonic, a cause that was dear to her heart. Please include her name in the notes when donating: NY Philharmonic Donations. https://www.nyphil.org/support-us/how-to-donate/