Kent David Anderson

Kent Anderson died peacefully on August 16, 2025, seven years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Kent was many things: a husband, father, grandfather, incredible fisherman, baseball player, grill master, proud Democrat, marathon runner, avid University of Utah fan, Veteran, hippie, polio-survivor, artist, music lover, snazzy dresser, and above all, a friend to so many. But none of these things describes the essence of this talented, kind, charming man. Known to his grandkids as “Papa” or “Pops,” and “Andy” to many of his friends, Kent lived a full, rich life.

Kent met the love of his life in middle school, Judy Forbush, who became his wife of 64 years. Kent was a baseball player who pitched on the Olympus High baseball team and won the Utah state championship in 1961. Kent received a full-ride baseball scholarship from the University of Utah, where he played baseball with his young wife and son by his side. 

Kent graduated from the University of Utah in 1966 with a degree in Zoology. Kent was happiest when he was with his family and in nature, especially fishing on a river. Since the 60s, Kent believed in peace, love, and understanding for all people. He was a humble, sweet man who always cheered for the underdog. He believed in diversity, equity, and inclusion long before DEI was a term. He made friends everywhere. Right up until the end, he was making friends with the staff at The Ridge Assisted Living.

Kent is survived by his wife Judy, son Jerry Anderson (Gina Gregovich), daughter Candice Vogel (Erik Vogel), and grandchildren Dashiell Anderson, Lucius Anderson, Ellie Vogel, and Willow Vogel. He is also survived by his siblings, Robert Anderson, Gary Anderson, Sue Geary, and Margie Price. He is survived by many brothers and sisters-in-law, including Lynda Forbush, who has tirelessly and lovingly helped care for Kent. Kent is an uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Anderson. He is preceded in death by many good dogs and survived by one, Angus, who has been a source of comfort for him these past few years.

Those we love are never truly gone. We will feel Kent’s presence when we hike through the golden aspen leaves, as we ski too fast and slightly out of control in the Wasatch mountains, and most certainly when we fish in his beloved rivers throughout Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. Please honor him at your next Utah tailgate party with a shot of Jack Daniels, or think of him when watching a Dodgers game, or when you are casting into the river. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Utah Stream Access Coalition (utahstreamaccess.org). 

Friends and family are welcome to celebrate Kent’s life (wear your cowboy boots if you have them) on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Millcreek, Utah.