Michael was my brother-in-law, married to my sister, Linda. I loved Michael as the brother I never had. We could talk about anything and laugh about lots. He taught me how to drive a stick shift so I could accompany my sister to OTS on 1971. Within the last few years, I emailed with him while he was still teaching, and again when he shared all he could do once retired. I will hold Michael in my heart with great fondness. God bless your soul and keep you, Michael. 
Joan Van Ginkel Boyce.

What stands out most to me is the extraordinary love between Michael and Gloria— a love that was not just spoken but lived. Gloria stood by Michael with unwavering devotion, not only in the easy moments, but through the hardest ones. She laughed with him, encouraged him, whispered comfort, and stayed by his side until his very last breath. Their bond was more than partnership— It was a sacred rhythm of care, loyalty, and grace. To witness that kind of love was to witness something eternal. It wasn’t just undying— it was illuminating. The way they looked at each other, spoke to each other, and leaned on one another was a testament to what love can be when it’s rooted in respect, joy, and shared purpose. I will carry the image of their love with me always, because it showed me what devotion truly looks like.
September 12, Defender Day. a day that honors those who stand strong in the face of adversity. Michael was a defender of country, of family, of love. And Gloria, you too are a defender, a defender of legacy, of resilience, and of hope. I want you to know—just as Michael was a fighter, I see that same strength in you. I’ve watched you walk through this season with grace, courage, and a quiet power that inspires everyone around you. You’ve relearned tasks, faced grief head-on, and carried Michael’s legacy with dignity and light. I am proud of you. And I know Michael was too.
We remember Michael not just for the battles he fought, but for the joy he brought, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave. His story lives on in all of us. And through Gloria, his legacy continues—strong, radiant, and enduring.

Michael was a man of many traits, one happening to be “a foodie” —especially for good BBQ. One of my favorite memories—and I share it often— is the day we picked him up and he insisted we stop for barbecue. He marched up to the counter and started ordering like he was feeding a small army. Ribs, brisket, sausage—you name it. Then he turned around and said, “So what are you all eating?” We were stunned. We thought he was ordering for all of us—but no, he nearly polished it off himself. Michael was a true foodie—like a culinary storyteller, he could describe every flavor in a dish with the precision of a seasoned food critic. Whether it was the smoky undertone of a brisket or the subtle sweetness in a sauce, he tasted with intention and spoke with delight. He said exactly what he thought about it. That was Michael: full of surprises, full of life, and always ready to enjoy the moment. Through Michael and Gloria, I learned to experience food differently—not just as nourishment, but as an adventure of the senses. They taught me to savor, to appreciate, and to celebrate every bite. Thank you both for turning me into a foodie—for showing me that flavor is a language of love.

A man who was more than his rank, more than his titles—a man whose presence filled a room with wisdom, warmth, and unmistakable charisma. Lt. Col. Michael T. Anderson was a fighter in every sense of the word. He served his country with distinction, rising through the ranks of the United States Air Force with integrity and leadership. Michael poured his heart into academia, becoming a professor, nourishing minds with knowledge and curiosity. He didn’t just teach numbers— he taught people how to think, how to wonder, and how to believe in themselves. But he also served his community—with laughter, generosity, and a heart that never stopped giving.
If you ever had the privilege of walking into the Anderson home, you’d feel it immediately—a trail of history, a warmth that wrapped around you like a favorite quilt. Every photo, every book, every piece of woodwork, (the lamps), the medals, the artwork, whispered stories of a life well lived and generously shared. You feel the warmth of their love, not just for each other, but for everyone who crossed their threshold. Their smiles were always welcoming, their conversations always rich with meaning.
Michael and Gloria shared tales of ski trips, dude ranch adventures, and quiet moments that felt like poetry. They told them with such vividness, such joy, that you felt like you were right there beside them—laughing, learning, and living in that moment with them.

Dear Gloria,
I was heartbroken to hear about Mike’s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences. He was a remarkable person and I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him.
Mike was not only one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever met, but he was also an absolute blast to be around. I’ll never forget the fun the four of us—Clara, Mike, you, and I—had in Nuevo Laredo. And those unforgettable parties you both hosted at your casa in San Antonio… no one did it better.
One memory that always makes me smile is the time Mike and I went foraging for firewood. I had the truck; he had the chainsaw. It was classic Mike—resourceful, enthusiastic, and always up for an adventure.
But more than anything, I remember him as a terrific boss. Supportive, sharp, and fair. He made work feel like something more than just a job.
I’ll miss him deeply. Please know that you’re in my thoughts, and I’m sending you strength and love during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Joe Wojszynski

It is with deep respect and gratitude that I remember the life of Michael Anderson. To our family, Mike was more than a neighbor — he was a mentor, encourager, & steadfast friend who poured generously into our lives. His influence reached far beyond kind gestures; he was an advocate for education, a supporter of dreams, & a model of humor, wisdom, & love.

My parents first met Mike & Gloria through our neighborhood. At the time, my father was the sole financial provider while my mother raised us at home. My dad often took on side jobs mowing lawns, & it was through this that Mike & Gloria invited him to care for their yard. From the beginning, they showed kindness & generosity, treating us not just as neighbors but as part of their lives.

As we grew older, Mike became a mentor. He tutored us in math, encouraged our education, & wrote my very first letter of recommendation. Even after retiring from the Air Force & working as a professor, he never hesitated to help — whether for my first job, college applications, or an Army ROTC scholarship. He supported us joyfully, always believing in the importance of education, service to our nation, & growth.

Mike also carried a wonderful sense of humor. Even when my dad once “butchered” their bushes & left them looking like Medusa’s hair, Mike laughed & stayed gracious. He remained in touch through every milestone —graduation & commissioning, wedding, 1st kid, & my mom’s 60th birthday. His Christmas cards were a highlight, filled w/ wit, humor, & love of life.

A memory I’ll always cherish is Mike & Gloria’s daily jogs. They joked that they would each tell each other 1 excuse not to go, & then — without fail—they would go together. It was funny, but also a beautiful reflection of who they were: a couple who faced life w/ humor, perseverance, & love.

Mike was loving, generous, wise, & the perfect partner to Gloria. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, joy, & encouragement will live on in all whom he touched.

In Loving Memory of Michael “Spunky” Anderson

A brilliant mind, a generous mentor, and a cherished friend—Michael “Spunky” Anderson embodied a rare blend of intellectual passion and zest for life. As a professor of Statistics and Mathematics, he didn’t just teach formulas—he inspired curiosity, challenged assumptions, and made academia feel alive. His enthusiasm for learning was matched only by his love for living fully.

Beyond the classroom, Spunky was a companion in motion and reflection. Our countless bike rides and coffee shop conversations weren’t just moments—they were chapters in a friendship built on laughter, insight, and shared wonder. Whether discussing probability or the poetry of everyday life, he brought warmth, wit, and wisdom to every encounter.

You will be deeply missed, Spunky—but never absent. Your legacy lives on in the minds you shaped, the hearts you touched, and the trails we rode together. Always present, always remembered.

Mike, you will be sorely missed every time I visit a coffee shop just waiting to hear the name “Spunky” being called out! RIP my friend,…we shall have another coffee yet,…save me a seat!

If ever there was an example of a skewed distribution, it is the sample set of the number of people who have been impacted by ONE individual and how you have made students better by your kindness, wit, humor and love for education and academia. 

Words cannot summarize a person of his calibur within the confines of a paragraph, page or even a full novel. His life is best explained by experiences and I was blessed beyond belief to have known him and have him as my professor and ultimately a great friend - Those are the experiences which shaped my life and will continue to do so by me honoring him through passing on his knowledge . Rest in eternal peace sir.

OBITUARIO

Lt Col Michael T. Anderson USAF (Ret.)

22 diciembre, 1949 – 18 agosto, 2025

Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough

Muestre su apoyo

Comparta Un Recuerdo

Comparta
Un Obituario

Obtenga actualizaciones

Servicios