David Anderson

David Keith Anderson grew up in the small northern Wisconsin town of Tomahawk, where he was raised by his parents, Ralph and Helen Anderson, together with his brothers, Kenneth, Jule, and Terry. His childhood was filled with adventure, especially alongside his close friend Jim “Shaggy” Riordan and others who shared his love of the outdoors.

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Early Life and Career

As a young man, David worked at the local grocery store and became deeply involved in his community. He helped start the local waterski club and served as announcer for the Kwahamot Ski show, a role that perfectly suited his outgoing nature and quick wit.

After graduating from college, Dave moved to Washington, D.C., where he joined the Night Vision Laboratory. He played a role in developing night vision goggles during a critical time, supporting soldiers in Vietnam, and later continued his career at the Department of Defense at the Pentagon. Dave will be remembered not only for his work, but for his humor—he had a gift for lightening the mood with a well-timed, often sarcastic comment that brought smiles even in serious moments.

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Family Life and Adventures

In 1968, Dave married Anne in Sweden, beginning a lifelong partnership full of love, laughter, and adventure. They settled in Virginia and raised three children: Erik, Christina, and Karl. Erik, Karl, and Christina were avid year-round swimmers, and Dave was a constant presence at their meets, volunteering as a Stroke and Turn judge and cheering them on. He warmly welcomed his daughters-in-law, Jennifer and Carolyn, as part of the family, and took great pride in the life they all built together.

Dave and Anne shared a love of travel and created many cherished memories with dear friends Dave and Carolene Haller and Joan and Jesse Cox. Whether at timeshares, Disney World, or on one of their many cruises, Dave’s sense of humor and joy for life were always at the center of the experience. They also enjoyed playing bridge together, a pastime that brought them both challenge and companionship over the years.

At Lake Anna, Dave taught his children to water ski and created lasting memories through family camping trips, both in tents and in their RV. Later in life, he enjoyed participating in Silver Club and Generations, sharing his enthusiasm for NASA, giving cruise talks, and delighting others with his classic “dad jokes.”

Dave especially adored his five grandchildren—Jared, Jack, Liam, Ryan, and Emma—who brought him immense pride and joy.

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Hobbies and Passions

He had a deep love for animals and also found great joy on the farm, driving his tractor and tending to his famously successful tomato and blueberry crops. A devoted member of Reformation Lutheran Church, Dave valued his church community deeply and was an active participant in men’s ministry and service groups.

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Passing and Legacy

Dave passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, at the Culpeper retirement home where he resided with Anne.

He is survived by his loving wife, Anne; his children, Erik (Jennifer), Christina, and Karl (Carolyn); his five cherished grandchildren, Jared, Jack, Liam, Ryan, and Emma; his brother Terry (Jan); extended family and many dear friends. He also leaves behind a beloved dog, cats, horse and parrot.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday May 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Reformation Lutheran Church 601 Madison Road, Culpeper, Va 22701, with Pastor Brad Hales officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dave’s honor to MADCats: https://www.madisoncommunitycats.org/give

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” – C.S. Lewis