April 19, 1926 - January 11, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Robert Anderson on Thursday, January 11, 2024, in Newport Beach, California, with his daughter Kerry by his side. Bob's kindness, sophistication, and sense of fun left an indelible mark on countless lives. He was a true gentleman.
Bob was born in Exeter, California, to Dwight and Myrtle Anderson, where he lived until 8 when his parents moved the family to Boone, Iowa to take over the family farming business. Preceded in death by his loving wife Patty and his brother Dwight (Andy) Anderson, Bob is survived by his three children, whom he and Patty raised in Laguna Beach, California. Remembering him are his son David (and wife Karen) of Mission Viejo, California; his son Tom (and wife Jackie) of West Linn, Oregon; and his daughter Kerry (and husband Jeff Gilbert) of Meridian, Idaho. He leaves behind six cherished grandchildren, Duffy, Alexa, Brynn, Rylie, Grace, and Sam, and his great-grandson, Jax.
After attending Boone High School in Boone, Iowa, Bob pursued flight school. He later studied and graduated from Stanford University in 1950 with a BA in Economics. Bob earned a well-deserved place in the Stanford University Athletic Hall of Fame as an All-American swimmer and was an All-American halfback on the football team. In 1952, Bob returned to Navy service in Pensacola, Florida, as a member of the VF84 Squadron until his release in 1955. His dedication was recognized with a National Defense medal. It was during his service in Florida that he met his wife Patty, and they were married in 1953.
In 1956, Bob and Patty embarked on a new journey, opening Bob’s Men's Shop at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park. Running a successful men’s clothing business, he retired in 2004.
Throughout their lives, Bob and Patty enjoyed their travels worldwide, especially cruises with family and friends. Whether racing sailboats, playing tennis, golfing, or at the gym, Bob remained active and enthusiastically embraced life. Hardworking, unassuming, handsome, and charismatic, Bob always had a twinkle in his eye. Known for his perfect Mai Tai, he loved entertaining and sharing stories of his days as a Navy pilot, adventures with Patty, memories of the store, and the infamous donkey, O’Garrity, won in a golf tournament and brought home in the back seat of the family station wagon.
A private memorial to celebrate Bob's life will be held on February 10, 2024.
We raise a glass to you. Okole Maluna Bob. You will be missed.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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