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Lt. Colonel Lee Earl Anderson

FUNERAL HOME

West Resthaven Funeral Home

6450 West Northern Ave

Glendale, Arizona

Lee Anderson Obituary

Anderson, Lt. Colonel Lee Earl
Lt. Colonel Lee Earl Anderson has gone to be with his Lord. He passed at the Prescott VA Center and is survived by his wife of more than 56 years, Dorothy Anderson, his two sons Eric and Mathew Anderson and his daughter Dianna McCoy, his grandson Riley and granddaughter Taylor. Colonel Anderson volunteered in 1954 to serve his country. He worked at the Pentagon with the Joint Chief of Staff after the close of the Vietnam War, which he served in. After receiving 3 Bronze Stars and 2 Air Medals, he retired after 20 years to his home in the state of Arizona, where Lee's family has resided for more than seven generations. While still serving his country, Lee Anderson started Anderson's Indian and Western Art Gallery. Lee was an arts dealer for more than 50 years. His family continues his gallery. Lee Anderson has been associated with great artists from The Sloan Family, Carl & Irene Clark, Bob Lansing, Loretta Newman, Raymond Judge, Bill & Kay Foutz, and Gene Waddell. He will be missed by all. He will be buried in Phoenix in a private ceremony followed by a wake at the family home of 40 years in Flagstaff. The Family would like to thank the VA Hospital in Prescott, for all the love & care he received. Arrangements entrusted to West Resthaven Funeral Home. In lieu of cards & flowers, please make a donation to the VA Hospice in Prescott or the Arizona Humane Society.

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

Published by The Arizona Republic on May 31, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Lee Anderson

Sponsored by Americana Indian Shows.

34 Entries

Jerry Kerr

August 22, 2013

I had known Lee since the early 1990s as the show passed through the Baltimore/Washington area. I was sad when Arvid passed, and sadder still now. Lee was an outstanding man and true gentleman, extremely knowledgeable, eminently fair, understanding and compassionate in his way. I know he is missed by more than me.

Andrew Kerr

February 16, 2013

I was very sad to see that Lee had passed. He was a friend to our family for too many years to count. He and my Father Jim Kerr spent so many years and great times together throughout their lives. I was lucky to have known Lee as a child and adult and always appreciated him. He will be missed as you all know.

Carlos Begay

December 13, 2012

I was very saddened to read of Lees passing, Lee was a friend to my family and exposed my art through his shows. My thoughts to his family. He will be surely missed in the Art world.

Carolyn Frear-Hackler

November 13, 2012

I am saddened to hear of the new about Lee Anderson. I remember him well along with the rest of the crew. My Mother and Father (Joan and Dick Frear) started going to the Americana Shows in Golden, Co. back when I was about 13yrs old. Every year, couple of times per year we ventured out to the shows. I have very fond memories going to these shows and really believe this is how I learned to appreciate the wonderful artwork of the Native Americans. Since then, my folks have passed away however, they had such a large collection of artwork and sculptures, my brother and I had the privilage of having these in our homes now. Thoughts and prayers for the family of Lee Anderson.

Larrai Wullbrandt

November 12, 2012

I was saddened to learn of Lee's passing. It seems that I have known Lee and his family for as long as I can remember. I learned so much about American Indian arts from him and I credit my deep appreciation of the arts and culture to the time I got to spend with them all. Although I haven't seen Lee in years, I will miss him.

Valya Telep Karcher

October 29, 2012

Happy Trails to you, Lee...until we meet again.

Larry Wullbrandt

October 23, 2012

I am deeply saddened to learn of Lee's passing. He was a great friend and mentor. I first met Lee and Arvid in 1975 at a show in Colorado Springs. That first meeting whetted my appreciation of native American art but more importantly that chance encounter began a friendship that continued over 35 years. I was pleased when Lee asked me to work the Denver shows, which I did for several years. I never tired of listening to him speak to customers about the various items for sale but also about the native American culture and the southwest. I was always in awe of his generosity, kindness and sincerity. He was truly a gentle man. I was blessed to know Lee and the Anderson family. Gods speed my friend.

Thomas Paxton

October 1, 2012

Eric & tamara,

Didn't realize you dad has passed away. Have heard many wonderful things about him. My sympathy to you and the rest of your family.
Hope to see you soon,

Uncle Ed Paxton

Ray and Barb Kuntz

September 27, 2012

We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Lee in May. Our memories of Lee and the show staff will never be forgotten. I was born the same year as Lee and we became such close friends and clients that he went overboard to give us the best value he could in all our purchases over the many years. He visited our home when the show stopped in York several years ago and we had a wonder few hours together. Again, our hearts are saddened over our loss and he will be missed by all of our family.

September 24, 2012

I was saddened to hear of Lee's passing. I enjoyed his company when His show visited Fort Washington EXPO ctr. outside Philadelphia. Lee was the real Mc Coy. He was genuine. He showed such interest in other people and made time to talk to anyone about any subject for someone who was always extremely busy. I remember attending a Diamond Back's, Phillies' baseball game with Lee. We all had a memorable time
Mike Shannon Flourtown, PA

JoJo Stogden Bustillos

September 21, 2012

Lee was the "soul" of Americana Shows. I admired and respected his knowledge and his unique,warm,friendly manner. My heartfelt condolences to the Anderson family, specially to Eric and Matt.

Lita Loesch-Cox

September 14, 2012

I had the honor of meeting the Anderson family while living in Reston Virginia and going to my first show at the Best Western Westpark in Tyson's Corners. Over the years I had the opportunity to talk with Lee about Indian Art, History and all things Arizona. I feel so blessed and fortunate to have met him and the entire Anderson family, including everyone who worked at the shows. I was lucky enough to work with them in Virginia and in Arizona. The pieces we've purchased over the years have the stories that Lee shared about the artists and history which makes them even more special. Sending my love and prayers to the entire Anderson family. Thank you for your friendship and wonderful memories.
Lita Loesch-Cox- Cottonwood, AZ.

George Ward

September 12, 2012

I met Lee many years ago when the Americana Indian Show first came to Maryland under its earlier name. Throughout the years since, Lee was like a giant bird whose protective and nurturing wings spread over the entire show. Always ready to chat like a longtime friend, sharing precise details and advice about the items sold in the show and displaying a true kinship with the artists who produced them, ready to appraise items brought to him, and always offering a departing nip for the road with a unique smile and gleam in his eye. My condolences to all of the Anderson family and gratitude to Lee and all the family for their friendliness over these many years.

Susie Schreiner

September 4, 2012

It is with great sadness that I read of Lee's passing in the AIS brochure. I cannot begin to say how very fond I was of Lee. My late husband Richard purchased some "treasures" from Lee during shows at the Annapolis Armory. When my husband passed away, I inquired if Lee would be interested in seeing Richard's collection. Lee came to our home and I believe that he was surprised at the extent of the collection. Lee purchased some items and put the rest on consignment. Lee was a true gentleman and gem of a person. He assisted me so much and was the perfect person to help me in disposing of the collection--honest, forthright, etc. I became very fond of Lee and looked forward to the times he would be in the area. It was so apparent how much he loved his family and, in turn, how much they loved him. My life was a bit brighter because of Lee and his assistance during a difficult time in my life. I wish I had told him that, five years after my late husband died, I fell in love again and that I have a wonderful new husband. I think he would have been tickled for me. I can just see the twinkle in his eye. God bless the family (and especially Lee's sons who have displayed the same exemplary traits as Lee). My heartfelt sympathy to you all.

Mark & Marsha Werther

August 31, 2012

What do you say when you lose somebody that you really care about? Marsha and I first visited AIS over 20 years ago. It was obvious that Lee projected a friendliness and kindness that pervaded every show with the support of Wayne and Arvid. Lee's massive knowledge of the Southwest also became apparent. He provided suggestions for travel and explanations of the qualities of indian goods that became an Anderson Course in what was the best of Southwest art, rugs and jewelry. The more you asked, the more he provided, always with an unhurried interest in describing the subject in detail. Over the years, because of Lee, we became self-sufficent in buying in the Southwest, but we never stopped purchasing from AIS based on the quality and prices of items offered and treatment received. His attitudes, knowledge and customer treatment were purveyed into the other members of the group, mainly Eric, Matt, Davis and Brian. We did and do not feel like customers, but are members of a select group that visits AIS. We look at our collections of Burntwater Weavings, Quality Jewelry and Charley and Resdorf art and can only thank Lee and his minions for their interest in us. Lee is not gone; his past presence will always be present. The Werthers

Lia & Dan

August 23, 2012

We are so very sorry to hear of Lee's passing. We met him once many years ago and enjoyed talking with him very much. Our thoughts are with all of you always.

Ortwin and Margaret Tews

August 3, 2012

We have just learned of the loss of Lee. Over the years, we admired him beyond words. Surely our collection of Indian artwork is a tribute to him and his beloved Americana. We have gifted all three of our sons and their fam- ilies with Americana items, including their wedding gifts. Our sons are now granddads. We extend our heartfelt condolences and comfort to your entire Anderson family.

Livia

June 27, 2012

Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.

My condolences to the Anderson family during this difficult loss. Lee will be truly missed.

Helen Barrett

June 26, 2012

Lee will always be in my memories .I owe my appreciation and collection of native american jewelry to Lee and when I wear my peices I always think of how I came about to purchase these things from him.What a joy it was to see him at the shows in Las Vegas.with sadness I say good bye with best wishs to his family.Lee say hello to Arvid for me .Helen Barrett

Nancy Martin

June 26, 2012

I was saddened to hear of Lee's passing. Also it seemed a little shocking because, even tho I haven't seen Lee for a number of years, I always think of him as being a stern father figure type, with a sense of humor lurking in the background, and you just think that they're gonna be around forever. I was lucky enuf to work with the Andersons for some time, and Lee taught me so much about Native American Culture and an appreciation for their artistry and craftsmanship. Lee could be tough, but he was fair, and I am very glad that I knew him. My sympathies to the Anderson family.

Ida Jones

June 25, 2012

My first introduction to Native American artisans was through Lee Anderson in the late eighties in Northern Virginia. Lee helped me to grow in my appreciation of well crafted jewelry as he was always willing to tell me about the Native American artist. He will truly be missed by Junnie and I. Our sincerest sympathy to the family.

Jennifer Hathaway

June 24, 2012

I remember bowling with katchinas and pottery. Later Lee came across the photos and wanted to fire us all! What a wonderful friend he was. This planet will be a little bit darker and much to quiet without him. My condolences to you all. You are all dearly missed.

ary Selfridge

June 16, 2012

Lee was one of the good guys and will be missed by us all. He was always there with encouragement and a good story. I cannot remember a show that he did not come over and tell me how much he loved my art. Lee was one of my biggest fams. As we were his. Bill and I were so proud to be a part of Americana Indian Shows and was always treated like members of the family. Lee taught me so much about the Indian culture which I used even today. I always had to be very careful around him about saying I really liked a certain Item. Next thing I know I had it. Looking around my studio today I see so many things that I have because of his generosity. I love all of you guys and am so sorry for your loss.

The baby moccasins that Lee gave me are inside the Valentine's Day gift to my husband announcing our impending first born!

Stephanie (Brown) Richards

June 7, 2012

I grew up attending the shows with my parents (Bevan & Margo Brown)and family (Shelley & Vincent). I learned so much from Lee and have many fond memories of spending time with Eric, Matt and Dee Dee. I've posted a picture... A very special gift that Lee gave to me (when I was about 8 yrs old) as a "thank you" was a pair of baby moccasins. I've treasured them for years and when it was time to tell my husband (on Valentine's Day!) that he was going to be a Daddy, the moccasins were inside the Valentine's Day gift box.

Lee was so incredibly generous with his time and was a wonderful role model for me growing up. I will never forget the life lessons I learned from him, nor lose the love and repect I have for Native American culture he helped to instill in me.

Kathleen & Jerry Irwin

June 7, 2012

Our deepest sympathy goes out to all the Anderson family.Jerry and I know your loss is great and we understand your pain. May each of you find comfort and peace in the lifetime of memories you have with Mr. Anderson. Though we didn't have the privlege of knowing Mr. Anderson, we felt we did know him somewhat because of the close relationship Jaimie has had for many years with him and the entire Anderson family.
Dorthy, if there is anything we can do for you, remember we are only a phone call away.
Again, accept our sympathies and God Bless each of you.

David & Sharon Moul

June 6, 2012

We were very sorry to hear of your loss of Lee. We are grateful for the opportunities we had to hear him tell delightful stories & share information. Your family's in our thoughts & hearts during this tender time.

Gail

June 4, 2012

I always enjoyed hearing Lee's stories and soaking up his knowledge of Native culture. It always amazed me how much he knew, and I always liked being in earshot of him when he was sharing his knowledge with customers. It was a pleasure to know & work with him over the years.

June 3, 2012

Lee was always willing to teach people about the Native American culture. The shows are not the same without him.

Gina, Philadelphia

June 1, 2012

So sad to learn of Lee's passing. Just can't believe! He was always so kind and
very warm to me when I would see him at the
Va. show. Always looked for him.
Such a great loss to all. My sincere
sympathy to the entire family.
Jeanine Mingos Maryland

Stephanie Richards

June 1, 2012

I am so grateful for all the wonderful memories that I have from growing up with the entire Anderson family and the many wonderful people associated with the shows. Lee always treated me as a young adult (something I craved) and taught me so many lessons about Native American history and how to be helpful… Yes, I still do windows (after cleaning all those glass cases)! He possessed a powerful dignity that always awed me. I will miss him very much.
Visiting Flagstaff and getting to be with my friend Matt, whenever he traveled with the show, were highlights of my childhood. And Dad, I do remember the visit with Matt and the two casts on (something about roller skating on the porch!) and going to the Air & Space Museum. I can even remember a day when I had to be very young (before they moved out west) when I saw Lee in his uniform at the Pentagon. I don't remember the occasion (we rarely visited Dad at work), but it was a sunny day on the steps into the building. Standing a few steps below Lee and looking up at him, he seemed huge!
My favorite memory of Lee was from the Tyson's Corner Holiday Inn. I was probably 8 or 9 and had brought along a pair of fins to use in the hotel pool and Lee came to watch Matt and I splash around in the water. Matt put the fins on and began to swim around with them. Lee came over to me by the side of the pool and thanked me sharing the fins and for being Matt's swim buddy. He was so happy to see Matt swimming (something that I had not realized was a new skill) and I could see how emotional and proud he was. Later that day, he gave me a pair of beautifully beaded baby moccasins as a special thank you gift that I have treasured. I even have a picture of my daughter, Megan, wearing them!
Thank you for letting our family know of his passing and giving us a chance to refresh some wonderful memories of Lee.

Vince Brown

June 1, 2012

I will miss him and his memory too. He was always larger than life to me. Love you all

from left: Bevan, unk., Lee and Judge Cadot

Bevan

June 1, 2012

Lee's passing marks the end of an era for me. I met him in the early days of his shows, and got involved by stringing beads and polishing silver jewelry. I learned silversmithing by working with Arvid to repair items (replace lost inlays, re-size rings, etc.) and went on to make a few pieces. I considered the breastplate I made for Judge Cadot to be my apprentice project.
The shows at Tyson's were a family-like affair for us. Margo especially loved to hang out Friday evenings at the "reception for the mailing list special customers" and have a first look at the inventory. She always draped on a few high end items and mingled to show and sell items. She never wanted to write up sales. The General's wives, Tina and Ann, were very special friends of ours in those days.
Shelley learned jewelry and confidence in interacting with people at these shows, and used that experience to work at the Tyson's Corner Georgetown Cotton.
Matt came out by himself to visit with Stephanie. I remember them running around the Smithsonian Air & Space museum. Matt was wearing casts on both wrists and Stephanie had one too. What a pair!
It's been an adventure, hasn't it?

Best ever from the Brown Family

Lee Earl Anderson

May 31, 2012

Nathan

May 31, 2012

I send my condolences and thoughts to the Anderson family. May you find comfort in the promise that one day God says "no one will learn war anymore,"(Isaiah 2:4) just an abundance of peace.

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