Gary Michael Anderson, aged 81, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family following emergency open-heart surgery at the Pepin Heart Institute in Tampa, Florida.

A Life Well-Lived

Gary was born on September 27, 1943, in Ancon, Canal Zone, Panama, to Norman Clyde Anderson Jr. and Agnes Marion Atkinson. He spent his childhood in Balboa, Canal Zone, Panama, alongside his siblings, Kenneth Joseph Anderson and Marylin Jean Lyttle. From elementary school through high school, Gary formed lifelong friendships and created cherished memories.

After attending the Canal Zone Junior College for two years, Gary began a fulfilling 32-year career with the Panama Canal. His work brought pride and a deep connection to his home in the Canal Zone. Later, in 1997, he relocated with his beloved wife Ellen to Zephyrhills, Florida, where they created new memories together.

Gary loved playing and watching golf, was an avid fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and celebrated every holiday with joy and elaborate decorations. He also had a deep passion for photography, capturing all of life's greatest moments, and cherished attending the Masters golf tournament every year—a tradition that brought him and Ellen immense happiness.

Achievements and Legacy

Gary took immense pride in his role as a police officer for the Canal Zone, a position he thoroughly enjoyed and excelled at. His dedication to his community, family, and passions made him a role model and beloved friend to all who knew him.

Family and Love

Gary's journey through life was enriched by his marriages to Eleanor "Galena" Putaturo (1962–1974) and, later, Ellen Elizabeth Wilson in July of 1979. He was a devoted husband to Ellen and a loving father to Carrie Michelle Rice (Tom), Kevin Michael Anderson (Tracey), Christine Marie Wilder (Jeffrey), Stephen Michael Mallia (Kamila), and Michael Sean Anderson (Kristy). He is also survived by his six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his younger brother, his son Kevin, and three grandchildren.

Gary will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love of life, his family, and his extraordinary ability to bring joy to every occasion.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday February 8, 2025, at Knights of Columbus 11549 Curly road, San Antonio, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM