J Willis L. Anderson

J Willis L. Anderson, 95, took his last breath in this world and his first embrace in Jesus’s arms on Thursday, October 22, 2020. He had been in the care of Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas for a few days after experiencing a massive stroke. He is back with the love of his life and our mother, Kathryn Schafer Anderson, who crossed over January 22, 2014 after 59 years of marriage. They were married in a small ceremony in Hebron, Nebraska on November 15, 1954 and were the proud parents of five children. J W was born January 31, 1925 the sixth child of eight to John and May (Ahlstedt) Anderson, all preceding him in death. He grew up in Galva where they moved from the family farm that his father had built so he and younger brothers would be closer to school. He enlisted and served in the army during WW2 for three years ‘43-’46, making 5 beach landings in New Guinea, Luzon, Leyte, Mindoro, and Lingayen in the 617th Engineer Equipment Company. After leaving the military and while working in the oil fields as a pumper, he met Kathryn and resided in Galva. They moved to McPherson in 1962 to start his career as a supervisor for the McPherson Park Department. J W. retired from the Park Department in 1988 but continued working part time for a few years after. J W’s devotion was to his family and God, his passion was mowing on his Hustler, and enjoying country life. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Canton, where he and Kathryn were baptized and attended and lifelong member to the McPherson VFW. J Willis was preceded in death by Kathryn, his parents, and all his siblings, Pearl Anderson, Maynard (Bud), Dorothy Rue, Rosie Tarn, Adeline Long, Bob, and Keith. He has left behind a multitude of family, 6 children, Jerry Batson, Vickie Culver, John, Kristine (Larry) Little, Arlyn Jay (Elaine), and Clinton Ray; 17 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, 8 great great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends. We are eternally grateful for his long, content, and fulfilling, yet simple life, but already miss his charming character, warm presence and loving arms. The family extends their appreciation and for all the thoughts, prayers, cards, calls and concerns, visits, on behalf of J Willis. A private family graveside service was held Friday, October 23, 2020 at Roxbury Valley View Cemetery. Memorials have been established with Hospice House in Hutchinson Kansas, Olson's Mortuary, Canton, and the Canton First Baptist Church.

J Willis L. Anderson

January 31, 1925 - October 22, 2020