Joseph Wesley Anderson
February 6, 1926 - February 5, 2014
Joseph Wesley Anderson finally rolled a seven! Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend died peacefully following a cerebral hemorrhage on February 5, 2014, one day before his 88th birthday. Joseph (Joe) was born February 6, 1926, in Tremonton, UT, to Lars and Edith Laxman Anderson. Joe grew up in Salt Lake City, and was a proud alumnus of Washington Elementary, Horace Mann Junior High and West High. He studied physical education at Utah State Agricultural College. A faithful Aggie, Joe was elected president of his freshman class and won his football letter by playing center on the football team. He earned his Masters Degree in Education Administration from San Francisco State University. He was a teacher and principal in California and Utah for 43 years. He was an Eagle Scout, and a Life Master in Bridge.
Joe was an avid sports fan. He loved to travel, and he visited many parts of the world collecting friends and art along the way. Most of all, Joe loved to throw a good party and was most comfortable sharing his home with family and friends. Joe was known and loved for his passion for teaching, his leadership, intellect and sharp wit.
Joe married Lynette Christensen in 1952. Their children are son Matthew and daughter Leslie. They were later divorced. Joe married Margaret Stephens in 1972. They have a son, Wyeth.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret of Cottonwood Heights, his son Matthew and his wife Marla McGuire of Boise, ID, and their children Alex and Hannah Anderson; daughter Leslie Anderson and her husband Tom Cook of Missoula, MT, and their children Adam and Dan Cook; and son Lieutenant Colonel Wyeth Anderson and his wife Jutta Anderson of Vicenza, Italy, and their children Sara and Eva Anderson.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his five siblings; Alvis (Andy) Anderson, Evelyn Nation, Lars Anderson, Art Anderson, and Marie Combs.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, February 15 from 6:00-8:00pm at Starks Funeral Parlor; 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, UT, where complimentary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building.
In lieu of flowers, Joe requested that donations be made to the Rescue Mission of Salt Lake, 463 S. 400 W. Salt Lake City, UT, 84101, or the Utah Food Bank, 3150 S. 900 W., Salt Lake City, UT, 84119.
Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.starksfuneral.com
In Loving Memory
Thinking of you, dear Meg, and all your family during these sad days. I was privileged to have met Joe, if only for those few short days--but it was clear why you loved him. Travel well in the company of all who loved him, and you.
Kitty Porterfield
Alexandria, VA
Our sincere sympathies to the Anderson families on losing Joe. Given his strong character and will to live, it seemed that he could keep on going, so it is a shock to learn of his passing. He has always been an inspiration to us in living well and intelligently. We will miss him and his wry humor. Love from Roy and Mark.
Roy Wesley and Mark Weber
Chicago, IL
Reading about Joe reminded me of Wytt! Our thoughts are with you Wytt and the entire Anderson family.
Dennis and Kris McGowan
Washington, DC
It was a honer to have worked for a short time for you both and to have been able to get to know you thank you for the work. Mr Anderson was a very kind man with a lot of wisdom.
shelley boehm
magna, ut
Jim and I are sorry to hear of Joe's passing. You were such an incredible support to him and made his life on board ship memorable and comfortable. I remember fondly our conversations. Take care of yourself Margaret.
Shirle Johnston
White Rock, Br
I felt as though I knew Joe through Margaret. It was evident from how she talked about him that they shared a great love for each other and their children. My condolences to you all. What a wonderful tribute in the obit!
Amy Dixon
Park City, UT