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Bernie Anderson Obituary

Bernie Anderson

May 1942

January 2014

Bernard (Bernie) Anderson passed away January 10, 2014 following a brief illness. Bernie was born in 1942 to Bernard and Beatrice (Keogh) Anderson of Sparks, NV. Bernie attended St. Thomas Aquinas Elementary School and graduated from Bishop Manogue High School and the University of Nevada. At UNR, he was active in Sigma Nu fraternity and numerous student groups.

Bernie started his 31 year teaching career at Trainer Middle School, continued at Wooster High School, and concluded at Reed High School. Bernie was active in the Washoe County Teachers Association (WEA) and the Nevada State Education Association, serving as a Board member as well as officer in both organizations. He also served as Nevada's representative to the National Education Association's Board of Directors.

In 1990 Bernie was elected to the Nevada State Assembly. During his more than 20 years representing Sparks, Bernie held many leadership positions, including Majority Whip, Chairman of Judiciary and Speaker Pro Tempore. Of the many items he sponsored or worked upon, he was proudest of the creation of the Drug Courts and his work on education and domestic abuse. One of the strongest characteristics of his leadership was the ability to build compromise and do what was right for Nevada.

Following his retirement from the legislature Bernie continued to advocate for retired public employees through RPEN and WEA-R. In addition to political and education activities, Bernie served in the Nevada National Guard, was involved in the Sparks Charter Committee, the Knights of Columbus, and the Democratic Party.

Bernie is survived by his wife of 46 years Clyda (Hooper), daughters Cairn (Eric) Lindloff, Natha Clyde Anderson, two grandsons (Connor and Teague) brother Ed and his wife Lani and several nieces and nephews.

A vigil will be held Friday, January 17 at Immaculate Conception Church (2900 North McCarran Boulevard, Sparks) with viewing from 6-7 followed by service and remembrances starting at 7:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the UNR Foundation Scholarship being set up in Bernie's name, or the Immaculate Conception Church Building Fund or a charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Reno Gazette Journal and Lyon County News Leader from Jan. 14 to Jan. 15, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Bernie Anderson

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Tom Lambert

January 18, 2014

I am sad to hear of Bernie's passing. He and I were close during my Sigma Nu undergrad activities. He was a good influence on me. /s/ Delta Xi 905

January 17, 2014

Clyda and family:
We are so saddened to learn that our dear friend and colleague had died.We will miss his smile firm handshake and above all his valued friendship. Loretta and Tony

Nancy H

January 17, 2014

To the Anderson Family,
It was an honor to have worked with Bernie at Reed H.S. and to watch Bernie work his magic during years of monthly Washoe Educators Representative Council meetings. I was so happy when Bernie was elected to be the Assemblyman in my district in Sparks. He dedicated 20 years representing the interests of his Sparks constituents and the state at large and served in that position with honor. The state of Nevada, Nevada educators and thousands of students are the better for his life long service. Thank you Bernie, you will be missed.

Stan Kauffman

January 16, 2014

We have lost a truly great friend, mentor and caretaker of our well being. Bernie was a dedicated public servant. I shall miss him but I shall also remember him.

michael perry

January 16, 2014

To Bernie's Family ~~ A gentle soul, a compassionate and loving and kind human. Just an honor to have known him and to have this wonderful man teach our children. You departed too soon...may our Source/God speed your journey home, Bernie.
namaste ~michael~

Cassie Ponsock-Uhlmeyer

January 16, 2014

Mr. Anderson was an Exceptional human being. We have many teachers in life - but if we are lucky, we have a couple teachers who remain. In our minds and hearts. Mr. Anderson was one of my 3 favorite teachers. I give him credit for who I am today. I could say much more - but I will leave it at this - you are Loved - and we will miss you!!!

January 16, 2014

Mr Anderson was my favorite teacher at Wooster. He was a wonderful educator - warm, engaging and always smiling. He truly cared. Sincerest condolences to his family.

Lykes

January 16, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss. He was truly a light. I had run into him at the store and recognized him as a local leader. I had 2 young children at the time and he was so kind to help me get a shopping cart with wheels that actually worked. He saw my need and acted. A gentleman indeed. I'm sure his life was filled with these valiant acts of service always. Thank you for sharing this great man with the community.

Joe & Diane McCollum

January 15, 2014

To the family - Bernie was a longtime friend of the family and a great teacher and advocate for our state. His wonderful smile will be greatly missed.

January 15, 2014

To the family -- I had the honor of working with Bernie in the 1997 legislative session as his attache .. a wonderful man. A mentor and a friend, he will be missed. Cindy Southerland

Rod Nelms

January 14, 2014

My deepest condolences to the Anderson family in Bernies' untimely passing. He was a great public servant and always trying to help rail labor and rail safety with his advocacy for safe railroad operations in the State of Nevada. Rest in Peace.

January 14, 2014

Clyda, Cairn and Natha - I don't need to tell you how much Bernie meant to us. My whole family loved him and we will never forget him, his smile was contagious. He was way too young to be gone but while he was here he certainly made an outstanding contribution to society! We feel blessed to have had him as a friend. Love, Herb & Barbara and family.

Lawrrence Bianucci

January 14, 2014

To the family of Bernie Anderson;

My deepest sympathy and condolence during the loss of your loved one.

Lawrence Bianucci

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