Robert Theodore Anderson, 92, of Suttons Bay, passed away on Fri, Dec 13, 2019 at Munson Hospice House while surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born on the family farm on Nov 2, 1927 the son of Theodore M Anderson and Rachel M (Setterbo) Anderson.
On Jun 8, 1962 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Suttons Bay, he married Effie A. (Green) Anderson, who survives.
He graduated from the Union School in Suttons Bay (aka the Old Stone School). He served his nation in the US Army during the Korean War and rose to the rank of sergeant first class. SFC Anderson was attached to the 980th Field Artillery Battalion of the 40th Army Infantry Division.
Bob was a true son of Leelanau County; he was born, married, worshiped, raised a family and tended to the family cherry farm in the county. He was a lifelong cherry farmer in Suttons Bay. In 2016 Bob and Effie received the Cherry Industry Lifetime Achievement Award.
In addition to running the family cherry farm, Bob was a milk man for over 30 years. His routes included Leelanau, Grand Traverse, Benzie, and Manistee Counties. He was a charter member of the Christian Radich Lodge, Sons of Norway #568 in Suttons Bay.
Bob had an unwavering faith in Christ. He was a loving husband and a devoted father. He was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Effie; his three sons, Myron (Carolyn) Anderson, Bruce (Lynda) Anderson, and Chris (Michelle) Anderson; his sisters in law, Martha Anderson, Christine Anderson and Daleen Green; his grandchildren, Bria (Travis) Wheeler, Bailli, Colton, Chase, Rachel, and Nicholas Anderson and Melissa Kelly; his great grandchildren, Keegan, Chloe, Kipton, Cohen, and Novah; and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Rose, Thelma (Steve) McClintock, Theodore, Clayton, and Gene Anderson.
The funeral service took place Mon, Dec 16, at 11 am, with the family greeting friends at 10 am at the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Suttons Bay. Burial will be held at 11 am today, Dec 17, at the Lutheran Cemetery of Suttons Bay. Pastor Jonathan Reid will officiate.
Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
