John Anderson

John Anderson, 92, of Great Falls passed away on Tuesday, May 29, 2018. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, June 12 at 2:00 PM at Christ United Methodist Church

John was born in Eden, MT on Nov 1, 1925 to Adolph (Ottle) and Ruth Anderson. His early years were spent in the Eden and Craig areas where his parents farmed and ranched. He attended high school at Great Falls High and left school early to join the Army, where he served as an M.P. in occupied Japan. After his honorable discharge he returned to Great Falls where he met and fell in love with a beautiful nursing student from Butte – Lorraine (Larri) Buettner. They were married in Nov. of 1949 and enjoyed 63 years together. Shortly afterwards, Dad went to work for Mountain Bell Telephone in Denver. In 1958 they happily returned to Great Falls, after a 30-year career he retired from the phone company in 1982. In 30 years he never took a sick day.

Dad loved to hunt and never missed a season until he turned 89. Mom and dad had a cabin near Lincoln where family and friends shared many happy times. Dad’s interest in firearms led him to gun collecting and he played an instrumental role in the foundation of The Winchester Arms Collectors Association.

He also loved shopping for antiques with mom. Dad loved Montana history and was a treasure trove of information about events and places in Montana. Pick the smallest town or an insignificant event and he knew something about it.

He was preceded in death by his bride, Lorraine in 2012; his oldest son, Bill (Andra) in 2015; and his younger brother, Tommy (Sherri) in 2001.

He is survived by his sister, Donna Taylor (Bill) of Virginia; daughter, Sharon Yould (Pete) of Missoula; son Carl Anderson (Sara) of Missoula; and daughter, Kris Hissom (Ken) of Worden and many precious grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to spending time with family and friends, Dad loved hunting, collecting antiques and reading. He always had a book (or two) going and loved discussing them and sharing what he learned.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to FISH, 1620 – 12th Ave. North, or the Great Falls Public Library, 301 – 2nd Ave. North.

Condolences to the family may be shared at www.croxfordfuneralhome.com.

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