Jeffrey Alan Anderson Sr.

Jeffrey Alan Anderson Sr. of Savanna, Illinois, passed away at his home on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the age of 62. A private family service will be held.

Jeff was born on March 11, 1963, in Clinton, Ia. the son of Vernon and Patricia Anderson. He grew up in his hometown and attended Savanna Schools. From a young age, Jeff was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. He began his career at Schafer’s Fish Market, where he worked for 21 years. He later took pride in working on heavy equipment and helped build and repair roads across Illinois and Arizona. Jeff also worked for Elite Tree before returning to Schafer’s.

Jeff was married to Laurie Zubaty in 1982, with whom he raised four children and shared many years of marriage. He later married Kay in 2011; although they separated, they remained close friends.

Jeff loved being outdoors. Whether he was chopping wood or simply enjoying nature, he found peace outside. He took great pride in his children. He had a passion for motorcycles, a love he passed on to his son Jeffrey. Jeff was also a collector at heart, gathering everything from Chicago Bears memorabilia and clowns to flashlights. He enjoyed tending to his houseplants and took great care of them. Known for his generous spirit, Jeff had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

Jeff is survived by his four children, Jeff (Liz Johnson) Anderson Jr., Michael (Olivia) Anderson, Jessica (Kregg) Griffiths, and Jennifer (Josh) Updike; ten grandchildren, Kharissa, Jared, Austin, Kailee, Chance, Jaken, Carson, Anthony, Corbin, and Odette; two great-grandchildren, Emmett and Lynnin; three siblings, Charleen Haring, Jay Anderson, and Sharon Juricic; and his former wife and dear friend, Kay Anderson, many nieces and nephews, and his best bud till the end, Pat Buchholoz.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Patricia; his brother John; his brother James; his brother-in-law Jim; his niece Colleen; his brother-in-law Dick; and his nephew Richard Haring.