John W. Anderson's Obituary
John Wilton Anderson, Jr., 70, of Decatur, formerly of Fairfax, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, February 2, 2019, in his brother’s home, in Decatur following a long illness.
John was born May 3, 1948, in Chicago, IL to John Wilton and June (Wilkinson) Anderson, Sr. John’s early years were spent in Bloomington, IL, Decatur, IL and New Madrid, MO, but he claimed Memphis, TN, as his home. After graduating from White Station High School, John enrolled in the University of Memphis, and later joined the United States Army. He was a Vietnam era veteran having served in both Munich and Frankfurt, Germany as a military police officer. After being honorably discharged in Frankfurt, John enrolled in the University of Maryland in Frankfurt and received a bachelor’s degree in 1974.
A natural athlete, John played basketball, racquetball and softball on a regular basis and was known as the home-run hitter. At an early age he developed a passion for golf, achieving a 2 handicap and golfed whenever he was near a course. He also repaired golf clubs for friends. In his later years, John enjoyed fishing as well as putting together jigsaw puzzles. He was employed by 3M, CRS Enterprises, Inc., and Austin Insurance, all in the Northern Virginia area where he developed lasting friendships and golfing partners. Upon retirement in 2010, John relocated to Decatur, IL.
Always willing to lend a hand, John was known for his wonderful sense of humor, his quick wit, easy laugh, and easygoing manner, with never a harsh word for any one.
John was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Anderson and nephew, Thomas R. Anderson.
He is remembered with love by his brothers, Gerald R. Anderson and James E. (Sandy) Anderson of Klamath Falls, OR; nieces, LuAnn (Jeff) Nihiser of Decatur, IL, (who were also his caregivers) and Amy (Eric) Hempel, Port Angeles, WA; nephews, Scott (Crystal Yakle) Anderson of Mt. Zion, IL, Chris (Trista) Anderson of Syracuse, NY and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. He will be remembered fondly by Beverly (Geisland) Anderson, his former wife of 23 years.
Honoring John Wilton Anderson, Jr.’s wishes, cremation services will be provided by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. No services are planned at this time. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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