Stephen Caldwell Anderson

Stephen C. Anderson passed away peacefully in his home on October 6th, 2024 after a struggle with heart disease. Stephen was born on February 19, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Wallace and Elizabeth Anderson. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Gloria, daughter Stephanie (Albany, NY), son Michael (Lansing, MI), daughter-in-law, Nikole, grandson Mikah, and soon-to-be-born twin granddaughters.

Stephen (Steve) graduated from Mariemont High School, Ohio Wesleyan University with a degree in Psychology, and Michigan State University with a Masters degree in Social Work. Steve was a collegiate swimmer for Ohio Wesleyan and was involved with AAU swimming and coaching throughout high school and college. After completing his undergraduate studies, Steve enlisted in the Army and continued his service in the Army National Guard as a reservist in Ohio, New York, and Michigan.

Steve married Gloria Barbaro of Rochester, New York, in 1974. They met while working at the Convalescent Hospital for Children in Rochester. In addition to his work duties, Steve was a Scout Leader for the young boys and spent his personal time providing extracurricular activities to build their appreciation of the outdoors and foster life skills.

Working at the Convalescent Hospital inspired him to pursue a degree in Social Work, which led to his family’s move to East Lansing. After graduation, Steve began working at Sparrow Hospital and continued to work there for 45 years. He was one of the first three social workers to staff the Department of Patient Support Services. He worked with patients, nurses, support staff, and physicians in almost every department of the hospital, in particular the emergency department, the burn unit, and rehabilitation. Steve’s professional input was sought by his colleagues and members of the community because of his expertise. He enjoyed training new social workers and graduate students; sharing stories and the ins and outs of working at the “Sparrow Hotel.”

Steve was an avid supporter of Michigan State sports and was a season ticket holder for Men’s Basketball. “Football Saturday” was his favorite day of the week if the Spartans were playing. He was thrilled the Tigers made the postseason this year, and every Thanksgiving dinner was timed around when the Lions game would be on. Fishing was not only a hobby for Steve, but a source of relaxation. He passed on his love of fishing to Michael and his godsons.

All who knew Steve were touched by his upbeat personality, clever wit, and his entertaining sense of humor. He had a talent for bringing humor and cheer, respectfully, to all situations. Everyone he spent time with has a favorite memory of one of his antics. Hold onto those memories!

The last few months of Steve’s life were challenging for him, his family, and friends as his health declined. His brother Douglas was a great comfort to Steve. The family is extremely grateful to all of Steve’s friends, especially Bob Caldwell.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michigan State Parks in memory of Stephen Anderson. Information on how to donate can be found at: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/giving