David Wilbur Anderson “Chief 5”, 66, of Fort Shaw, passed away on August 25, 2014. A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, September 6th at 2:00pm at the Expo Park. Cremation has been entrusted to Croxford Funeral Home & Crematory.

David was born to Donald and Ruth (Collins) Anderson in Great Falls on July 9, 1948. He was raised in the Sun River Valley and graduated from Simms High School. In August of 1969 he was married to the love of his life, Barbara Ann Butler, and together they raised their daughter, Michelle.

Although he held several different positions throughout his working career (including the Anaconda Co., Laborers Local, and Sun River Valley School District), Chief Anderson was truly devoted to the calling of emergency services. He joined the Fort Shaw Rural Volunteer Fire Department in 1970 and was elected Fire Chief in 1980; he was a State & National Certified EMT since 1976. His favorite saying was known to be “The first time you respond, you volunteer – after that it is a commitment.”

David loved to be around people; he was a member of the Classic Car Club from 1966-1972, and was also involved with the Sun River Valley Senior Center. As much as David did for his community, his family was always #1 in his heart. He loved his girls; daughter Michelle and Granddaughter Brittany (Whom he lovingly called “Bratney”) more than anything else.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara Anderson of Fort Shaw; daughter, Michelle (Ross) Hopp of Creswell, OR; and granddaughter, Brittany Holmes (Tyrel Feeler) of Great Falls.

In honor of Chief Anderson, a memorial fund has been created. Donations may be made at any 1st Liberty Credit Union branch in the name of his wife, Barbara Anderson.