William Edward Anderson

Bill Anderson, the second of three sons, was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Fred and Merry Anderson. His family later moved to Colorado. Bill graduated from East High School in Denver. He attended Mesa Junior College and earned his Associate of Arts degree. He then moved to Southern California, attended Northrop Institute of Technology, and obtained his Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenses. United Airlines hired him as an aircraft mechanic, recognizing these certifications.

Bill enjoyed a distinguished career with United Airlines that spanned more than 39 years. His work took him from San Francisco to New York and eventually back to San Francisco, where he retired as a Maintenance Operations Manager in 2001.

While at school in Southern California, Bill met the love of his life, Pat. After he was hired by United Airlines in San Francisco, he spent countless hours driving his beloved MG up and down California. He logged thousands of miles as he courted his future wife. Bill also served in the Air National Guard and attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base. After their marriage, Bill and Pat settled in Northern California and built a beautiful life together. They would have celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary this August.

Together, Bill and Pat were blessed with three children: Shawna Neal (David), Jennie Moore (Steve), and Eric Anderson. He was a proud grandfather to Geoffrey Neal (Kirsten), Michael Neal (Lisa), Alyson Griffith (Kyle), Samantha Moore, Michaela Singh (Marvin), Harrison Anderson, and Hunter Anderson. He was a cherished great-grandfather to seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bill was a man of many talents and interests. He was an accomplished trumpet player and member of the Denver Junior Police Association. He proudly marched in President Eisenhower’s Inaugural Parade and even started his own dance band called Blue Angels. He had a natural aptitude for mechanics and could seemingly fix anything, from household projects to his own cars. Later, he started his own handyman business, Handy Andy, and helped countless people with repairs and projects, both large and small.

Bill was a devoted follower of Christ. He was a faithful member of Christ Community Church in Milpitas for over 50 years and served as a Deacon. He was actively involved in his children’s lives, coaching youth soccer and supporting all their activities and interests.

Bill loved watching sports, playing golf, and traveling, especially near the ocean. His favorite places included Santa Cruz and the Hawaiian Islands. He deeply appreciated nature and had a special affection for birds. He always found ways to feed and care for them wherever he went. He treasured time with family and friends. He enjoyed SIRS, ROMEO, Thursday dinners with friends, and the occasional Mocha Frappe from “Mickey D’s”.

Bill passed away peacefully in his sleep after developing chronic lung disease. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Merry Anderson; his brothers, Robert and John Anderson; his mother-in-law, Maxine Campbell; his brother-in-law, Harry Little; and his nephew, Kevin Little.

We remember Bill for his unwavering faith, devotion to family, servant’s heart, and remarkable ability to fix almost anything. He helped neighbors, served his church, encouraged friends, and spent time with loved ones, leaving a lasting impact. His legacy of faith, kindness, generosity, and dedication lives on through his family and all those he touched. We love him deeply, miss him dearly, and will remember him forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 1, 2026 at 1:00pm at Christ Community Church of Milpitas, 1000 S Park Victoria Dr, Milpitas, CA 95035. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to CCCM in Bill’s honor.