Dennis J. Anderson

Dennis J. Anderson, 83, passed away on April 11, 2025, after a fierce, 12+ year battle (I'm going to beat this thing!) with Parkinson's disease. He slipped away peacefully at home, exactly where he wanted to be.
A wonderful man, loved by all, Dennis was modest with an amazing variety of skills and talents. Known for his quick wit and humor, he enlivened every conversation. A scholar, he earned a B.A in Foreign Affairs from Assumption College in Massachusetts (1964) and a Master's (1966) and PhD (1973) in Asian Studies from St. John's University in New York. Dennis had a flair for languages; he studied French, Russian, and Chinese. He also wrote beautiful Chinese characters which led him to a mostly hidden talent: painting beautiful Chinese art and intricate, abstract designs. A patriot, Dennis served his country as an intelligence officer during his 30-year CIA career.
After retiring, Dennis made the Mclean Racquet and Health Club in McLean, VA, his home away from home. He perplexed his tennis opponents with his tricky left-handed spin serve and surprised them even more when they tried to return with a wide shot and he switched racket hands, answering with a cross-court winner. His passions included participation in Seagull Century rides with his recumbent bikes, skiing, and music. Longing to play an instrument, he chose the marimba. He bought that instrument in pieces, assembled it, and taught himself how to play, sending lovely, mellow tones throughout the house. And then there was his love for dancing. When he took to the dance floor at family weddings or New Year's Eve celebrations, the music transported him to another plane and he became the center of attention, bringing smiles to onlookers who sensed his pure joy.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 46 years, Dianne Rankin; two daughters Denise Hogan of Aylett, VA, and Deborah Anderson of McLean, VA; granddaughter Sydney Hogan of Aylett; great-granddaughter expected in June; brother Fred Anderson and sister Veronica Anderson, both of New York; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother James Anderson of New York, and his grandson Ian of Aylett.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, April 27 at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday, April 28 at Saint Mark Catholic Church, 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Interment and reception will follow at Fairfax Memorial Park, Fairfax, VA, beginning at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, 111 W. 33rd St., New York,
NY.