Don Anderson

Long time La Canada, Rancho Mirage, Calif. resident, Don "Donnie" Anderson passed away after a brief illness on November 21, 2010 in Glendale, Calif. He was 84 years old. "Donnie" was a track and field standout for the University of California Bears from 1947-1950. He was a runner up in the 100 and 220 yard dash at the 1950 NCAA Championships which earned him All American Honors that year. He was also named Outstanding Track & Field Athlete of the year by the Pacific Association of the AAU in 1950. He was inducted into the Cal Sports Hall of Fame in 2007 with all of his family in attendance. Don was a pioneer in the plastic packaging industry and ran two successful businesses from 1963 until his retirement in 1997. He spent many enjoyable days on the golf course before and after retirement with his sons and close friends at Oakmont Country Club and The Springs in Rancho Mirage. Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Jo Anne; sons, David (Cindy) and Jon (Ann) Anderson; grandchildren, Courtney Coleman, Ashley Anderson, Derek Allread, Joanie Allread; and great granddaughter, Abbie Pearl Coleman. There will be a celebration of Don's life at 4:00 PM on Friday, December 10, 2010 at the La Canada Presbyterian Church, 626 Foothill Blvd., La Canada, Flintridge, CA 91011. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the VA Hospital Greater Los Angeles. Attn: "Voluntary Service".
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