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Greg Alan Anderson

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University of Louisville

Greg Anderson Obituary

Greg Alan Anderson

Greg Alan Anderson, 46, passed away peacefully at home with his wife on Saturday, December 1st, 2012. Greg was born in Spokane, WA on March 20th, 1966. He spent his high school and college years in Louisville, KY. After graduation from the University of Louisville in 1988 he headed back to the state of Washington pursuing his professional football career. Meanwhile, Greg started working for a health club chain in Seattle and the rest is history. He and his wife opened their personal training gym, Ideal Exercise, in Seattle in 1994. Greg is respected worldwide as a pioneer in the field of High Intensity Training. He loved being in the gym and unselfishly shared his vast knowledge of his profession with anyone who asked. He was a mentor to many. Greg was a man of many talents, especially at making people laugh--ask anyone who knew him. His hundreds of personal clients and friends will miss him dearly!

Greg is survived by his wife of 19 years, Ann-Marie (Garrett) Anderson; his mother and father, Susan (Lucas) Anderson and Stephen Paul Anderson; his brother and his husband, Eric Anderson and Stephen Tollafield. Greg also leaves behind many loving cousins, aunts and uncles.

If you would like, you may donate to the American Heart Association.

We will celebrate Greg's life at 2:00PM, Saturday, January 19th, at Pier 57 on the Seattle Waterfront. Please email [email protected] for more information.

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

Published by The Seattle Times on Dec. 9, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Greg Anderson

54 Entries

G Poole

August 28, 2013

It's been very nearly impossible for me to write this, as it has been so hard to convert my thoughts and emotions into mere words. Greg and Ann-Marie were integral elements during a period of tremendous personal growth for me, and they helped to change my perspective about life and training; in fact, they helped make the words practically synonymous. Although I wasn't able to see him as often as I would have liked, Greg's image remains as clear in my mind as if I just left the gym. I can still hear him calmly counting down the last remaining seconds of an exercise, imposing his quiet motivation. He certainly made a lasting impact on my life, for which I will always be grateful. He will be fondly remembered and truly missed.

Ethel & Bud Runyan

March 1, 2013

May God bless your memories of and your time with Greg. Life is shorter than we would have it sometimes. May you also find strength and peace.

Ben D. Kennedy

February 23, 2013

Greg-
I just found out about your passing yesterday and after some reflection I figured the best tribute I could give you would be to go home and lift as hard and as heavy as I could. I have been training harder lately in preparation for a competition this summer with our old friend RG. It was when I called RG to let him know about you that I told him I was going to try to rack squat 700 as my way to honor your memory. It sounded a little crazy since my best lately has been barely 600. When it was time to do the 700 I put on a good Iced Earth metal song Watching Over Me written by Shaffer about a friend he had lost which got me fired up. Somehow I managed to lift the 700. Thanks for the help old friend! You were always a good and loyal friend who always had my back. I will miss you but never forget you. I look forward to working out with you again in the next world with the strongest man to ever live JC. See you soon.
Your old Friend Ben Kennedy

January 27, 2013

I feel in love with you from the minute the doctor placed you in my arms. I use to describe it to friends, as like watching your heart walk around outside of your body! Greg was my little buddy and side kick! When I finally got pregnant with my second child when Greg was almost 5 years old, I became at little worried. I was living with my in laws at the time. When I put Greg down for the night I went next door to visit with their neighbor Sharon. Sharon was a mother of three little girls. As a young mother she was much wiser then her years. I remember sitting at her kitchen table having a cup of tea, tears brimming my eyes. I told her I did not understand how I could love another child as much as I loved this one? Sharon assured me that my heart was going to hold all my children, as well as friends and family.
My heart is shattered and broken, but still loves.

I read this at Greg's Memorial Service which AnnMarie & the Griffith's put together and was wonderful. Many special friends and glowing comments help us all get through this sad time. God Bless and thank you all!

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Kathy Davis

January 25, 2013

Search Light Moms wants to tell you how sorry we are for the passing of your Greg. If there is anything that we can do for you please let us know. We as mothers understand the day to day pain as we search for answers.
Love and Blessings,
Search Light Moms
www.slmoms.com

Also on Facebook

Dave Maxwell

January 16, 2013

Our family is with you in thought and prayer. The Maxwell's

Judy Blair

January 16, 2013

I had the privilege to train with Greg for about two and a half years, and i loved every minute of it. I will never forget him in one of our last sessions imitating the narrator of the Honey Badger videos while i tried to do an ab curl without laughing.

I miss him so much, but i'm glad to have the opportunity to see Ann Marie every week and continue what Greg began.

Tony Smith

January 2, 2013

Mr. Anderson... you were a mentor and an authority on just about everything. You taught me how to instruct.

One of my proudest memories was a quiet conversation you and I had shortly after Mike Mentzer passed away. You had made a reference to your place in the world of HIT (someone had named you as #1 or 2) as one of maybe 10 true authorities on the subject and I asked you where does that put me??? Your response to my question, true or not, still fills me with pride... "somewhere in that group behind me." Honestly it is because of what was never learned that I was able to learn from you the value of HIT/Superslow etc.

Ann Marie, I wish you all the best and I know that this is a difficult time. I am very sad that Greg is gone but I also know that he would expect his friends/clients to continue on and that death is just an excuse. No Excuses…

Tony smith

Carol Gillespie

December 24, 2012

Countless times, I've looked at Greg's picture, shaken my head, and told myself—yes it is true. I'm still in disbelief.

I miss walking into the gym and hearing his colorful story-of-the-day, which he couldn't wait to tell. Whether it was about Walter T. Katt, a weird/funny/annoying occurrence, or a recollection of his younger days, he was so entertaining. Even if I heard the story before, I asked him to repeat it because he was a fantastic storyteller. Many of his stories were beyond sick and twisted, but he couldn't wait to tell me because he knew I'd appreciate them all. I'll miss how he'd well up with tears of laughter.

Thank you Ann-Marie, for your and Greg's gift of friendship and generosity towards Rick and me. We feel so fortunate to have hung out with you two for dinner, drinks, sporting events, chili cook-offs, you name it. Great memories.

Sweet dreams, Greg…we love you.

Don Hillerich

December 21, 2012

So very sorry to hear about the loss of a fine man! I am just seeing this post and very saddened by the news! Greg was a fine football player and great friend for the short time he played football for the Louisville Bulls @1988-1989. He took the time more recently to congratulate me (and the Bulls) for a Championship game in 2008 and my Hall of Fame induction shortly after. Even after no contact in many years, he thought of me enough to contact me. I am so glad that he did, we talked as if little time had passed since we played ball together. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends as I know Greg is sorely missed!

Andrena Hansen

December 18, 2012

Steve, Sue, Eric and Ann-Marie,
We am so very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers, may God Bless you during this difficult time. Greg will be missed by many who loved him.
Blessings,
Dennis and Andrena Hansen

Carol Magnuson

December 17, 2012

Remembering back to the times when I used to baby sit you - RIP

Guy and June Priest

December 16, 2012

So sorry to hear of your loss... May God comfort you and bring you peace.

Nita Hoines

December 15, 2012

I trained 15+ years with Greg and will always remember the wit and pressure to one more rep. He cared about us even though he tried not to show it

Juan Res

December 13, 2012

RIP Greg, thank you very much for your teachings.

Starla and Scott DeLap

December 13, 2012

Ann Marie, I was in complete disbelief when Susan called me. I am so sorry for your loss. I have missed visiting and working out with you both. I so wish that I had stopped by and visited. I will be forever grateful to you and Greg for your help with my training and competition. I would never have been able to accomplish training that hard without his help and enthusiasm. He was very loved and will be greatly missed.
Sending you our love and hugs,

Brad Steiner

December 12, 2012

When Greg passed away I lost a fine friend and a fine student. Words don't help when such an enormous loss occurs. Please know, Ann-Marie, that I will never forget Greg, and I will always smile when I think of the many great conversations and laughs that we had together.

Brad

Brad

Dave Shoffler

December 12, 2012

Ann-Marie,im so sorry for your loss. I really dont know what to say. I will never forget all the time Greg spent with me on the phone with me. I learned so much from him about HIT . Again im so sorry for your loss.

Gary & Kathy Moore

December 12, 2012

Trusting Jesus to fill you with peace and give you rest...

Dan & Kathy Ackerman

December 12, 2012

Dear Ann-Marie, We wish you as much peace of mind as possible over the next few months.

December 12, 2012

Ann-Marie,my darling, sweet, young lady, my heart goes out to you and you are in my prayers. I didn't ever get to meet Greg, but knowing you & hearing from your mom, Greg was the BEST and I'm so sorry that he is not with you now. But always remember the good times and keep him in your heart always.
You've always been so dear to me and I will keep you in my prayers. Keep strong.
Love & hugs to the best two kids (your brother) I ever baby-sat. With exceptions of the snakes. : )
As ever & always, my love,
Betty Pratt (Irwin)

Terry Carter

December 12, 2012

So sorry to hear of the passing of a great guy. Greg with his great personality and dedication to his passions will not be forgotten.

True Seahawk Fans!

Ann-Marie Anderson

December 12, 2012

Greg and Ann-Marie's engagement photo 1993

Ann-Marie Anderson

December 12, 2012

December 11, 2012

We are too sad for words. With Love, Mom Carolyn and Brother Stu

Patrisa and Stanley Stahl

December 11, 2012

For Ann Marie and Carolyn we send our love and pray for your comfort. Bless you both during this challenging time. Greg, no doubt is watching over you from his new perch in the universe. Namaste'

Ross Porter

December 11, 2012

Greg had many admirable qualities. My favorite is that he thought for himself. He did what he thought was right and best, not what society expected of him. I knew him as a trainer. His methods were based on science/research, but were definitely not normal. The methods worked, and I thank him and Ann-Marie for the health they have brought me.

Janell Johnson

December 11, 2012

The words you left me with were powerful and full of grace. I am eternally grateful. You are missed and you were loved!!

December 11, 2012

We have known Greg and Ann Marie for several years as terrific human beings, friends and trainers.

We found them through the body by science community and realized right away that Greg was a powerful personality. He could be (and often was) curmudgeonly, brilliant, energizing and humorous all at the same time. His impact on the world was substantial and unique and you couldn't help but be intrigued and have a good laugh too.

We are saddened by this loss especially for Ann Marie, Greg's friends and family.

The world at large didn't get enough time with Greg Anderson. He'll be sorely missed. Janice and Stephan

Jennifer Babb Badinger

December 11, 2012

Steve & Sue,
My mom told me this morning about your loss. My heart goes out to you both, and Eric also. I am so very sorry.
Jennifer

Troy Griffith

December 11, 2012

I still can't believe Greg is gone, I first met Greg during my junior year of high school. He prepared me for my senior year of football by twice a week putting me through an incredibly grueling workout, which some days included me pushing his car while Greg sat in the driver's seat applying the brakes with a sinister grin on his face. Greg and Ann Marie have been more than good friends over the years they have been like second parents to my brother Kyle and I. I always looked forward to every training session with Greg, but would always dread every time he called my name to start my workout for it would always be very excruciating. Greg and Ann Marie were one of the first that my wife and I told we were having a baby, and our ultrasound picture is displayed proudly on their bulletin board. Greg would joke with me after we found out we were having a boy to figure out when he should get him a Judo Gi and when we should get him wrestling shoes. I'm very sad that my boy won't get to meet Greg, he is one of the best people I have ever had to privilege of meeting, and you will always be missed.

Mike Fitzmaurice

December 10, 2012

Absolute stunning loss. All around great guy, funny, sharp, and a fantastic trainer. His knowledge was unsurpassed and always happy to share his wisdom with me and my many questions. You will be very missed as I looked forward to seeing you 2x a week for the last 14 years. My best wishes and condolences to Ann-Marie and your family.

Training them young!!

Carol & Mark Potts

December 10, 2012

Dearest Ann-Marie,
I am so sorry for your loss. Greg was one-of-a-kind! When I think of all the crazy years of training I have to laugh! We had some great times before HIT and so many memories after! Greg will be sadly missed, and bring many happy memories to many.

Scobie Puchtler

December 10, 2012

I got a call from Heidi at the gym on Monday, about 4 hours before my weekly workout with Greg. She let me know that Greg had died the night before, and that I should come in next week for my regular slot… but not that afternoon. Despite my shock, or maybe because of it, it was only a few minutes after the call that I thought to myself: “I think Greg would be pleased to know that no one's letting me skip more than one workout.”

As it was, Ann Marie had been covering his workouts for a few weeks, but all the info I had up until that call suggested that he'd be back, maybe even this week. My wife and I have been training in back to back slots with Greg every Monday afternoon for more than two years. Not much of a record really, if you've seen the plaque on the wall honoring 5, 10, and 15 year clients. Still, spending the hardest 10 minutes of your life with someone for 100 or more weeks in a row puts you in a mindset unready to digest the kind of information I was getting in that phone call. All blessings to Heidi for her work getting the word out.

It is frankly hard to imagine never again hearing those those quiet, perfectly-timed, devastatingly effective cues that kept my failures clean and excruciating, and my motions smooth and disciplined. No matter how raucous the gossip at the front desk, or how off-color the latest joke, when the workout began with Greg, the cone of discipline descended and the expertise was palpable. I'll never forget the time I was slowing at ? positive on an overhead press, knowing I was on the asymptote to failure, signals of panic beginning to form despite my best attempts at marshalling pure stoic effort. Then, just audible in my left ear, utterly calm, Greg's voice: “It could still go.” I'd never heard that one before. The panic fell back, effort was focused, and there were a few more seconds of motion.

To be honest, there was a lot in life I didn't share with Greg. I follow no sports, I don't eat meat, don't drink alcohol (it tends to kill people in my family), but Greg knew all that, and came to trust that our shared enthusiasm and passion for… well… for enthusiasm and passion would be sufficient. Our shared interest in honest education and straightforward communication was another bond. Greg never hesitated to tell me about the things that mattered to him, even if the countries of our lives only shared a few borders.

Most importantly, Greg made a difference in my life and in the life of my family and my students.
After my father's brutal suicide left me drifting into weakness, he helped me regain strength. At 45, I am now stronger than I've ever been. Greg also donated equipment to the little independent high school where I teach, so that I could start a Body by Science program with the kids, who are stronger and more disciplned than they ever thought they could be. Greg gave me the guidance I needed to oversee two years of injury-free workouts there and the kids just keep getting stronger. Oh, and my wife is now scary strong too, in a way I never expected to see.

So, I sit here staggered at this loss, fairly blown away by Greg's influence on the health of my community, and then consider what an absurdly tiny fraction of his life had anything to do with me. So then I try to multiply by what I imagine to be some factor, some quantity representing how many people he touched, how many people he made a difference for, how far his example reached, how much his thinking and writing mattered, how much his practice mattered, and I come up with an impact I can't really wrap my mind around. I simply can't form an adequate image. Greg's loss opens a gulf beyond reason, but I'm going to trust that in the face of adversity, he'd want me to remember that “It could still go” to focus the effort for a few more seconds of motion.

In deepest gratitude and remembrance,

-Scobie in Seattle

Corwin

December 10, 2012

The man who taught me both how to be strong and how to get stronger. I will miss you so much. I wish I had been able to train with you the last time I saw you. Thanks to you though I can hurt myself on my own.

Nancy Collins

December 10, 2012

What a shocking loss this is. A sharper wit, sense of humor and knowledge I have not known. I got hooked on Greg & Ann Marie's HIT from the beginning in 1994 and it breaks my heart to think of not seeing Greg at his post in the front office and gym. My heart goes out to Ann Marie for her huge loss. Greg you will be missed so very much. RIP. Another one of your fans.

Nancy Collins

December 10, 2012

So sad to lose you. RIP Greg.

Mom

December 10, 2012

I loved you, more than you will ever know, from the minute the doctor placed you in my arms!

MOM

December 10, 2012

I loved you, more than you could ever imagine, from the minute the doctor placed you in my arms!

Greg and Ann-Marie practicing making Chili

Ann-Marie Anderson

December 10, 2012

Mark Allen

December 10, 2012

Greg you will be sorely missed. I'll miss you training me and I'll miss the times we worked out together. My thoughts and prayers go out to you

Howard Stoppelman

December 10, 2012

I trained with Greg at Brad's class for years. Greg was a very fine man.

Bill Sahli

December 10, 2012

Greg... we won't be playing phone tag anymore, nor have our HIT 4 minute conversations between clients. What a loss for us here... of such an amazing soul. Thank you for the time you have spent here with us, you have made a difference in so many lives in a way that only you could.

Blessings my friend!

December 10, 2012

Rest in peace Greg. Dave Hodge, Waggener High School Wrestling team mate.

December 10, 2012

Dear Anderson Family,

I attended Waggener High School with Greg! I recently reached out to him to attend our 25th high school reunion. I am so so deeply sorry about your loss. Please know that his friends and classmates in Louisville send you prayers and an abundance of love!! Lori Cobb Wheless

My favorite picture of Greg.

Robin Nellist

December 9, 2012

It seems impossible that he's not with us anymore. He was a fine man with a razor sharp wit, great intelligence, a generous heart, and was a superb story teller. I will forever be grateful to both of you for making me strong. Greg put 30 pounds on my leg press in 1995--I've come a long way since then! Anne-Marie, the two of you were so lucky to have each other. It was a privilege to be a part of your world and hope to continue our friendship/trainership. Am holding you in my thoughts. I've been worried about dear Walter and how confused he must be. I've never seen a man who loved a kitty more. Let me know how I can help you.

Mike, Amy, Greg and Ann-Marie at Safeco 2012

Ann-Marie Anderson

December 9, 2012

Mike Bender

December 9, 2012

"What I leave behind may help others find the way". Rest in peace my friend.

American Heart Association

December 9, 2012

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

Greg and Ann-Marie at Cafe Lago

December 9, 2012

Greg and me with Dave Niehaus's statue at Safeco Field 2011

Ann-Marie Anderson

December 9, 2012

My Dearest Greg,

I will miss you more than my meager words will every be able to express. For the past 23 years you were my best friend, my lover, my husband, my business partner. I am so lucky to have had the chance to be your wife. We loved each other as much as any two people could ever love.

You were a man of strength, character, wisdom and wit! Your quick sense of humor impressed all. Many will miss you because of how you touched their lives. You unselfishly gave yourself and your knowledge to those who asked. And they, as I, love you for that.

Tell my Dad “hi” and have fun golfing with him again. I look forward to the day I can hold you once more and tell you how much I love you and how much I've missed you. Rest in peace my loving husband.

Your little Porc,
Ann-Marie

P.S. Walter T. Katt misses you too!

Greg Roseman

December 9, 2012

You will be missed.

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