John Anderson Sr.

On Saturday, November 14, 2015 the Lord our God called home one of his most faithful servants, John D. Anderson. John was born in Verona, North Dakota on August 26, 1917 to Edwin and Laura Anderson. He had 11 brothers and sisters, including his twin Jake. John and Jake joined the Navy in 1937 and John was sent to China where he served on destroyers until 1941 when he requested a posting to the Battleship USS Arizona, the ship his brother Jake served on. John was granted the transfer and had only been on the Arizona a short time when the Japanese Empire attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The Arizona was lost that day, with over 1,100 of her crew, including John's twin brother Jake. John went on the fight in 25 major engagements of the war, and served in the Navy as active duty and a reservist for 35 years. John went to Martin School of Science after the war, became a meteorologist, and ultimately became the radio personality Cactus Jack on KSWS radio then the weatherman on KBIM TV. In 1968 John married the love of his life, whom he considered God's gift for him, Karolyn Barnett. They were together for 47 years; she survives him at the family home.

In his passing John leaves behind a huge loving family including his sons and daughter in-laws, Ed Anderson and wife Sue of El Paso, TX, Terry Anderson and wife Sheila of Roswell, NM, John D. Anderson Jr. and wife Carla of Carlsbad, NM, Travis Anderson and wife Jill of Hilo, HI, daughter in-law Karen Anderson of Roswell, NM, 24 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; brother Art and sisters Lavina and Ann. John also left behind family and friends too numerous to count, including his good friend Mr. Don Stratton, also a USS Arizona survivor.

Preceded in death by his father and mother Mr. and Mrs. ES Anderson; brothers Roy, Jake, Ed, Bob, Carl, and Burt and sisters Ogda and Helen.

To all of us he was John, Andy, Cactus Jack, Grandad and Dad. The world is a lesser place without him and we will miss him.
A memorial service is scheduled for 10 am, Friday, November 20, 2015 at Church On the Move with Pastor Tim Aguilar of Church On the Move officiating.

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