Robert Charles Anderson

Robert Charles Anderson passed away peacefully on 2/12/24 at the age of 89 in Bridgeton, MO at his home on Lakewood Crossing Drive. He was the beloved husband of Mary Clay, who passed away on January 13, 2001.

Robert is survived by four children: Theresa Vann Hahn (spouse Mark), Elizabeth Leslie Anderson (spouse Pamela), Douglas Edward (spouse Stacie), and Clay Matthew (spouse Michelle). He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Emily and Matt (spouse Katie) Hahn; Benjamin, Levi, and Vivian Anderson; and Ian and Trevor Anderson; and one great-grandchild, Lucas Joseph. Robert’s younger brother, Thomas, lives in Paulden, Arizona. Robert was preceded in death by his sister, Audrey Norman, and older brother, James. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews in Nebraska, South Dakota, Alabama, and a sister-in-law, Jackie Anderson, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Robert was born in Omaha, Nebraska on October 14, 1935, to Rosemary and Clarence, and at eight years old moved to Rapid City, South Dakota. He graduated from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology in June of 1957, with a degree in electrical engineering. After a brief period in St. Paul, Minnesota he entered the active U.S. Army Signal Corps as an officer. He was first stationed at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey and later sent to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, where he taught many army missile systems courses.

Robert met and married Mary Clay Laxson in Huntsville on July 9, 1960. Robert and his family moved to Santa Clara, California in late 1960 where he worked for Lockheed Aircraft. Following 2½ years teaching military missile systems, the family moved to the St. Louis, Missouri area where Robert was employed by McDonnell Douglas Corporation for 33 ½ years. The family lived in Bridgeton and was always involved in the Pattonville School system.

Robert had a very broad career in missile and spacecraft systems design and development, and was always very satisfied with the challenges of these projects. He was an avid contract bridge player, finding new friendships there. Robert enjoyed a multitude of adventures while hunting and fishing throughout his life.

The family is being served by the Alexander White-Mullen Funeral Home on St. Charles Rock Road in St. Ann, MO. Private family services will be held. If desired, donations may be made in Robert’s name to USO, Missouri Humane Society, and BJC Hospice.