Steven D. Anderson

Steven Donald Anderson, 68, of McFarland, WI, headed out on his final road trip, peacefully surrounded by family and love. Born February 2, 1957, in Rockford, IL, Steve graduated from Duluth East High School in Minnesota and eventually put down roots in McFarland, where he’s lived since the early 1980s.

Steve spent his life on the road, proudly driving semi trucks across the country for companies including Ryder and MRS. He loved the open highway, the stories, and the people he met along the way. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for the McFarland Fire Department for 14 years, a job he loved and took great pride in.

The greatest joy of Steve’s life was his family. On September 7, 1985, he married the love of his life, Gayla Joy (Hendriex). Their marriage was the kind of love story people talk about, full of love, laughter, teasing, and unwavering devotion. Steve adored Gayla and never missed a chance to tell anyone just how lucky he was to have her.

He was endlessly proud of his children, Shawn and Brandi, and his grandson Nikolai. His eyes lit up every time he talked about them, and his love for his family was felt in everything he did.

Steve had a heart as big as his stories and a laugh that filled every room. He loved camping, fishing, hiking, and playing pool, but what he loved most was the people around him. Steve never missed an NHRA drag race in Brainerd, MN, where he went every year to watch the finals. When he wasn’t on the road, he could usually be found cheering on his favorite sports teams, the Packers, Badgers, and Brewers. If you knew Steve, you knew he was a talker, a joker, and a friend to absolutely everyone. He’ll be remembered for his humor, his warmth, and the love and laughter he shared so freely.

Steve is survived by his wife of 40 years, Gayla; children, Shawn Anderson of Janesville, WI and Brandi Anderson of Prairie Du Sac, WI; grandson, Nikolai (Niko); mother, Marilyn Anderson; sister, Susan (Rob) Showers; many nieces and nephews; and countless great friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Anderson; brother, Thomas Anderson; and childhood best friends Marty, Dave, and Herbie of Minnesota.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Brian and Hannah from SSM Health Hospice for their incredible care and compassion. Their support over the past two months meant the world to us, and we truly couldn’t have done it without them.

Visitation will be from 12:00-2:00 PM on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Cress Funeral Service MCFARLAND with a memorial to follow at 2:00 PM. 

Cress Funeral Service

5801 Hwy 51, McFarland, WI 53558

608-838-0655