Robert Ford Anderson

Dr Robert Ford Anderson, son of Raymond Anderson and Doris Ford, called Austin, TX his lifelong home, making significant medical contributions during his years of practice in this area. Born at Brackenridge hospital December 27, 1931, Dr. Anderson completed undergraduate studies at the University of Texas in Austin, and graduated with honors from the Medical School at Baylor University in 1957. After graduation he served his country as a commissioned Navy medical officer. When his active duty was complete, Dr. Anderson practiced as a general surgeon and obstetrician in Refugio, TX while still serving his country in the Navy reserves. Continuing his education, Dr. Anderson studied Internal Medicine at The University of Texas at Galveston completing his residency in 1966. Welcomed to The American Board of Internal Medicine Physicians in 1968, he concurrently completed a Fellowship in Cardiology at the University of Texas at Galveston. He was certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease Physicians in 1973. As one of the founders of the Austin Diagnostic Clinic in the 1960’s, Dr. Anderson practiced cardiology at the clinic until his retirement in the 1990’s. During the early 1970’s he served as the Chief of Staff at Brackenridge Hospital. Dr. Anderson paved the way for the introduction of heart catheterization in the Austin area. He was the first cardiologist to perform the procedure at Brackenridge Hospital. When Seton Hospital opened its doors in 1975, Dr. Anderson opened the heart catheterization lab at that facility and worked to build their cardiac and intensive care units. An avid outdoorsman, Dr. Anderson enjoyed hunting, fishing and training his beloved hunting dogs. His grandchildren provided much joy to his life. Dr. Anderson is survived by Patti his loving wife of 28 years and loving caregiver throughout his illness. Also surviving are his three children: Susan Mitchell with husband Tom Mitchell of Houston, Robert Ford Anderson Jr. with wife Cynthia Anderson of Houston and Steven Anderson with wife Sheryl Anderson of Austin. Dr. Anderson’s surviving grandchildren are Andrew Loras (Houston), Robert Ford Anderson III (Houston), Morgan Anderson and Madeline Anderson (Austin). A Memorial Service will be held 3:00 pm Thursday at Weed-Corley-Fish Chapel, 3125 N. Lamar, Austin TX 78705. Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com