Thomas M. Anderson Sr.

Ocala, Florida

Age 85, of Ocala, Florida passed away Tuesday at the Legacy Hospice House in Ocala. He was a former resident of Valparaiso and Duquesne, PA. Thomas was born on August 31, 1928 to the late Charles and Edna (Nee Roberts) Anderson in Homestead, Pennsylvania. He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church while living in Indiana and of Queen of Peace in Ocala. Thomas was a General Manager for National Steel in Portage, Indiana, brick mason, and proudly served the United States as an Army Corporal and awarded feather-weight boxing title while serving in Anchorage Alaska. He was a member of the American Legion Post 502 and Knights Columbus third degree. Thomas was an avid Chicago Bears and Notre Dame Fan as well as enjoyed golfing, bowling, hunting and fishing. Thomas was an avid reader and loved to share the things he found fascinating with everyone.

Thomas is survived by his loving family, four children; Cheryl (Dennis) Alderson of Valparaiso, Thomas (Janet) Anderson of Porter, John Anderson of Portage, and Mary Catherine (John) Coggins of St. Augustine, Florida, sister; Colleen Zuger of Homestead, PA, 15 grandchildren; Joel (Stephanie) Alderson, Sarah Anderson, Shannon Anderson, Danielle Anderson, Erin Anderson, Elizabeth (Jason) Schaffer, Stephen Anderson, Kristina Anderson, Heather Wood, David Wood, John (Stephanie) Coggins and Tommy Coggins, 8 great- grandchildren Mackenzie, Domonic , Eddie, Charisma, Isabella, Jason Jr. and Farrah, and very dear friend Deloris Proctor of Ocala, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years Martha J. Anderson, granddaughter, Melissa K. Anderson and great-granddaughter, Alexia Ortiz, his parents, six brothers; Charles, Clarence, Robert, Bernard, William, Jack and two sisters; Mary Catherine and Marilyn Anderson.

A visitation for Thomas will be Saturday, September 7, 2013 from 11-12 am at Our Lady of Sorrows, 356 W. Seven Mile Road, Valparaiso, Indiana, 46385 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at noon with Rev. Paul Quanz officiating. Cremation will follow with internment at St. Patrick Cemetery, Chesterton, at later date. Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave is handling arrangements. For more information call (219) 762-3013 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.