Gerald "Andy" LeRoy Anderson

Gerald LeRoy "Andy" Anderson, Sr., born on August 6, 1926, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the age of 98 in Peoria, Arizona.

Andy was one of ten children, born in Dawson, Minnesota to a Swedish mother and father, Victor and Phoebe (Warner) Anderson. Andy exemplified hard work and dedication from an early age working on the family farm. His life took a momentous turn when he enlisted in the Navy following the attack on Pearl Harbor, serving valiantly in the Pacific Theatre during World War II aboard the USS Rainier.

After his service, Andy met the love of his life, Patricia "Patty" (Wittenberg) Anderson, on a blind date arranged by his roommate while he was in school and Patty's sister Lois. Their bond flourished, leading to a beautiful marriage on Dec. 28, 1948 that lasted an incredible 76 years. Together, they raised eight wonderful children, nurturing them with love and instilling in them timeless values such as honesty, kindness, and the importance of supporting one another.

Throughout his life, Andy continued to serve his country in the Air Force, which took him and his family around the world. He was stationed in Germany during the Korean War, where he played a crucial role in working on classified communication machines during the Cold War.

Andy was a lifelong learner, continuously educating himself and encouraging his family to pursue knowledge and personal growth. His commitment to education was matched only by his compassion, particularly evident in his support for cystic fibrosis awareness. The loss of his daughter at the tender age of 21 months to this devastating disease deeply impacted him and inspired him to advocate for research and support for families affected by cystic fibrosis.

In 1963, Andy was stationed in Lompoc, California, near then Vandenberg Air Force Base. His children convinced Andy they wanted to stay in California so after retiring from the Air Force, Andy transitioned to a career with General Telephone and Electric (GTE) in Lompoc, where he continued to serve his community. In 1985, Andy and Patty later moved to Tucson, Arizona, before finding their home in Sun City West.

After moving to Arizona, Andy discovered a passion for the stock market, dedicating himself to mastering the intricacies of trading options. His enthusiasm for investing not only enriched his own life but also inspired those around him to explore financial literacy in the world of trading.

Andy was known for his love of repairing TVs, playing cards, and engaging in chess matches, often gathering family and friends for games filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Andy's life was characterized by his unwavering faith and the values he imparted to his family. He taught them the importance of being true to one another, bearing each other's burdens, and treating others with kindness and respect. His legacy of love, integrity, and support will echo through the generations.

Andy is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Mary Patricia (1959-1960), his parents and numerous brothers and sisters.

Andy is survived by his loving wife, Patty, and their seven children, John (Pam) Anderson, Linda (Charles) Leonard, Gerald (Vicki) Anderson, Jr., James (Lori) Anderson, Joseph (Toni) Anderson, Patricia Poole, and Pam (Tim) Richards along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the memories of their time with him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, honoring Andy's spirit of generosity and kindness.

Rest in peace, Andy, and Take Care. Your legacy of love and wisdom will live on in the hearts of those you touched.