Tonya Fay Anderson

Tonya Fay (Robbins) Anderson, 44, passed away far too soon on Sunday, July 1, 2018 in Pocatello, Idaho. She was born on August 9, 1973 in Pocatello. She had a large and varied family life in and surrounding Pocatello, where she grew up and lived her whole life. It is here she built her closest friendships and started her own family.

Tonya graduated from Highland High School in 1991 and continued on to graduate in 2000 from Idaho State University with a Bachelor's of Social Work. She was always a dedicated and hardworking employee at all her jobs. She began working at the age of 16 at the Reel Theatre, a job she enjoyed very much, for it brought her many close friends.

After she obtained her degree, she started to work at the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, a career that was very fulfilling for her. It helped her portray her caring and loving personality. She was able to explore the Native Culture and her family lineage, which became such an impactful part of her life.

Tonya's greatest achievement, as well as deepest love, was her children: Andre Shea, Kylie Kathryn, Eric Jett, and Kinli Sophia. No matter where she was, or what she was doing, it meant the world to have her kids by her side.

As time went on, and the longer she worked in Fort Hall, she became passionate about the culture and people there. Indian Relays, Pow-wows, and earrings were some of her favorites. However, the thing she enjoyed and became the most proficient with was running on "Indian Time" (meaning she was always at least 45 minutes late.) Tonya will forever be remembered for her contagious laugh and approachable character. No matter who you were, she always had a listening ear and helpful advice. She will be missed for that.

Tonya is survived by her four children; parents, Sandra and Kevin Robbins; sister, Charise (John) Balmer; nieces, Macie, and Lainey Balmer; and nephew, Rylan Balmer. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Zachary Pahneeno, and grandparents, Raeola Jensen Rhead, and Leath and Dawna Robbins.

We want to extend a heartfelt "Thank You" to those at Shoshone-Bannock Tribe, who worked with Tonya and helped us so greatly. And also to those who work at Portneuf Medical Center ICU, who worked so hard and took such great care of our Momma.

Funeral services for Tonya will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, July 7, 2018 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W. Chubbuck Road. A viewing will be held from 7-9:00 PM, Friday, July 6th and beginning at Noon on Saturday prior to her services. Her interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

If you would bring and leave your favorite picture of Tonya, her family would love to see them and add them to their cherished memories. They can also be shared with your memories and condolences may be shared with her family in the "Tribute Wall" tab above.