Dr. Robert G. Anderson

Dr. Robert G. (Bob) Anderson passed away after a long illness June 24, 2023. Bob was born August 4th 1932 in Memphis, Tennessee to Alvin and Euna Anderson. From Memphis, the family moved to Birmingham, Alabama before finally settling in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Bob attended Chattanooga High School, graduating with honors in 1950. Always interested in science, Bob attended undergraduate studies at Harvard University, living in Dunster House and also singing tenor for the Dunster Dunces acapella group in his spare time. In April, 1954 he met the love of his life, Joyce Prince, on a blind date. After dating for only two weeks, Bob proposed to his sweetheart as he had enlisted in the army and was headed for basic training. While away, Joyce proceeded to plan the wedding ceremony and they were married on July 20, 1954 when he returned. After taking a two year pause in his studies to get married and serve his country, Bob finished his education at Harvard and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1957. They then relocated to Seattle, Washington where Bob obtained his PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Washington. After graduating, Bob's job search led him to the San Francisco bay area where he landed a job as a research chemist with Standard Oil in Richmond. He and Joyce rented a small home in San Anselmo in 1961 before buying their first and only home in Terra Linda in 1962. In May of 1963, they welcomed their son, Bob Jr. By 1968, Bob discovered the joys of flying. He obtained his pilot's license, and by 1970 shared ownership of a Mooney M20C light aircraft. In 1973, he bought out his partner and he and his family became frequent fliers. Whether it was a day trip to Reno/Tahoe or a trip across the country to visit relatives, Bob loved to fly any chance he could. Wanting to share his love of flying with others, he obtained his flight instructor's rating and taught aviation ground school at Gnoss Field in Novato, where he was able to help many students earn their wings. Bob retired from Standard Oil (now Chevron) in 1986 as a Senior Research Chemist. During his tenure there, he was able to travel to such destinations as Europe, Africa, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines. After retirement, as he still had a great interest in chemistry, Bob started his own chemical consulting company, Chemtech, Inc. While working for Chemtech, he traveled regularly to Indonesia as well as throughout the US. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Milton Anderson (Medra) and sister Gayle Philpot (Tom). He is survived by his wife of almost 69 years, Joyce, son, Robert Anderson, Jr. (Linda), grandchildren Michael Anderson and Alyssa Anderson, and nieces Melanie Anderson and Valerie Smith (Rickey). The family thanks the wonderful caregivers and staff of Drake Terrace and Continuum Hospice. At Bob's request, no service will be held. Interment will be at Valley Memorial Park Cemetery in Novato, California. If desired, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.