Michael William Anderson

1940 - 2017

Michael William Anderson

Nov. 13, 1940

May 8, 2017

Longtime Grass Valley, CA resident and artist Michael William Anderson died peacefully at home on May 8. He was 76.

Mike was born Nov. 13, 1940 in Reno to William and Maxine Anderson. He spent his early years there and in Verdi, where his family moved in 1944. Mike attended Verdi Elementary School and Reno High School, where he graduated in 1959.

After high school, Mike served for six years in armored divisions of the U.S. Army. During much of that time, he was stationed in Germany.

Throughout his life, Mike had an intense interest in art. He became involved in many disciplines, including woodcuts, watercolors, wood carving and sculptures. He has a bachelor's degree and a masters degree from the Oakland-based California College of Arts and Crafts.

Mike married the former Nancy Smith in 1968 in Palo Alto, CA. They made their home in Oakland and later in the Northern California towns of Janesville and Shingletown. In 1983, they moved to Grass Valley to become part of the Quaker community of Towhee. For many years, Mike attended the Grass Valley Friends Meeting.

Mike enjoyed nature hikes and exploring ghost towns and old mining camps in California and Nevada. Mike was an avid stamp collector and was instrumental in creating a club for young hobbyists in the Grass Valley area.

He was a member of the Gold Country Stamp Club, National Audubon Society and Verdi History Preservation Society.

Mike is survived by his wife Nancy and son Tristan of Grass Valley; daughter Kendra of New York City; brother Tim of Reno; and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces and extended family. He was a loving husband and father.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 8, at 2 p.m., Sierra Friends Center, 13075 Woolman Lane, Nevada City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Friends Service Committee or to a charity of your choice.