Robert F. Anderson

Robert F. Anderson, 87, of Wolfeboro, NH passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 13, 2016 following a period of declining health.
Robert was born in Collinsville, CT on June 22, 1928 to Emil and Emma (Illausky) Anderson. He was a graduate of Canton High School in Collinsville, Class of 1946. Following graduation, Robert worked at First National Supermarket until he was drafted in 1950. He proudly served his country for two years with the US Army. Upon honorable discharge, Robert worked for many years making archery equipment with Outdoor Sports America out of Bristol, CT. When they closed their doors, Robert worked a variety of jobs, eventually settling into maintenance work at Bradley Home for the Aged in Meriden, CT where he remained until retirement.
Robert was a long-time member of Augustana Lutheran Church in Meriden. He was extremely active in the church serving on the church council and holding every position on the church council board at one time or another. He also taught Sunday school and was the church sexton for many years till April of 1994 when Augustana closed their doors. He then became a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church where he participated in many of the activities they offered. Robert participated in the men's church bowling league at Meriden Lanes on Grove Street. He also coached in the youth bowling league for several years. He and his wife, Ruth, deeply enjoyed traveling in their later years, visiting many different countries on multiple continents. Robert also made it a point to give blood every 28 days as he was, "O positive", a universal donor. Robert had donated 1 pint short of 20 gallons over his life time. He was short the 20 gallon mark due to health issues that prevented him giving anymore.
Robert is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ruth (Lake) Anderson of Wolfeboro, NH; his sons, David Anderson and wife, Marleen of Sanbornton, NH and Donald Anderson and wife, Debbie of Berlin, CT; grandsons, Daniel Anderson and wife, Stephanie of McGuire AFB in NJ and Matt Anderson and wife, Hallie of Saratoga Springs, NY; great-grandchildren, Caulen and Harper Anderson; sister, Doris Manzi of Webster, MA; brother, Carl Anderson and wife, Vilma of Vernon, CT; sister, Shirley Zatkalik of Burlington, NC; sister, Margaret Heide of Webster, MA; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his brother, Emil "Bill" Anderson Jr.; brothers-in-law, Mike Manzi, Daniel Zatkalik and Ed Heide; and sister-in-law, Terry Anderson.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 14th 2016, at 11:00 AM, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 164 Hanover Street, on the corner of Cook Ave and Hanover Street, Meriden Connecticut. Robert's urn will be interred at Walnut Grove Cemetery in Meriden at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you consider giving a pint of Blood in Honor of Bob.