Albert M. Anderson

Albert Maurice "Mert" Anderson, 87, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, in Evergreen Park, Illinois. Born on November 29, 1938, in Webster City, Iowa, Albert lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

Albert’s early years were spent in Stanhope, Iowa, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from the county high school. His education extended beyond the classroom, encompassing practical skills such as driving a semi-truck, job training in steel and paint factories, and completing the rigorous Chicago Police Academy. He also pursued college courses and Bible study classes, which deeply influenced his life and values.

Albert dedicated 40 years of his life to serving the city of Chicago as a police officer. His career was marked by integrity and dedication, training many officers who fondly remembered his guidance. One of the highlights of his career was witnessing the transformation of his district into a safer community, a testament to the collective efforts of Albert and his colleagues, including his two sons, Rory and Joe. Beyond his official duties, Albert formed lasting friendships at every workplace, from US Steel and Standard Oil, to local businesses where he lent his skills as a handyman and security advisor.

In retirement, Albert embraced his role as a devoted grandfather and family chauffeur alongside his beloved wife, Meriellen. Together, they cherished the opportunity to care for their grandchildren and create lasting memories. Albert often remarked that being a grandparent was one of the greatest joys of his life—a sentiment echoed by his children.

Albert’s hobbies reflected his resourcefulness and love for learning. He farmed and raised champion Angus steers in his youth, tinkered with cars and equipment, and undertook ambitious home improvement projects that transformed houses into cherished family homes. His faith played a central role in his life; he was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Stanhope and later became an active member of Ashburn United Methodist Church and Faith United Methodist Church. Albert’s service to his community extended through church activities, volunteering at food pantries, and helping friends, neighbors, and strangers alike.

An avid gardener in his later years, Albert found joy in experimenting with new plants and cultivating vibrant gardens filled with pollinators, strawberries, rhubarb, and plants chosen simply for their beauty. He loved sitting on the screened porch watching storms roll in and appreciating nature’s splendor.

Albert’s favorite pastimes included walking, biking, reading, and watching shows like *Jeopardy*, *Wheel of Fortune*, *American Pickers*, *Alaskan Bush People*, *Mountain Men*, and *Maine Cabin Masters*. These simple pleasures brought him great happiness.

Albert is survived by his sisters: JoeAnn Ennega, Iris Cook (Rex), Faye Cross (Ken Sr.), Julie Allen, Nina Beeghly (Jim), and Neva Henderson; his children: Paul; Rory and his wife Linda; Joe and his wife Lisa; Pamela and her husband Roberto; as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Renee and her husband Ian; Zachary; Samantha and her husband Jim, along with their children Layla, Josie, and Malcolm; Caitlin and her husband Bob with their children Devan, Emma, and Cameron; Nathan; Charlotte and her fiancé Jake; Chloe; Christian; Aidan; Mia; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Emil and Ruth Anderson; his sisters Lois Gorden, Zada Danielson, Ruth Minnie Anderson; his brothers Donald, John, Charles; and his cherished wife of 65 years, Meriellen.

Albert’s life was guided by a deep faith in God’s goodness and care. He lived by John Wesley’s words: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, at all the times you can, as long as you ever can.” His legacy of love, kindness, equity, justice, and service touched countless lives—many more than we will ever know.

Albert Maurice Anderson was a man of many roles: jokester, handyman, mechanic, builder, friend, tutor, counselor, chauffeur, babysitter, honorable son, devoted brother, loving husband, firm yet fair father, exceptional grandfather, proud great-grandfather—and so much more. His life was intertwined with that of Meriellen’s; together they set an extraordinary example of love and devotion that their family strives to emulate.

As we say goodbye to Albert Maurice Anderson, we find comfort in knowing he is reunited with Meriellen and surrounded by family in the presence of The Father. His memory will remain a guiding light for those who knew him. Albert’s impact on this world is immeasurable; he leaves behind a legacy of love that will endure for generations.

Rest in peace, Albert. You will be deeply missed but forever cherished. Save us a seat—we look forward to seeing you again.

In lieu of flowers donations would be much appreciated to the following organizations:

St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital

Shriners Hospitals for Children

Operation Blessing Food Pantry

4901 W 128th Pl, Alsip, IL 60803

Faith United Methodist Church

15101 S 80th Ave, Orland Park, IL 60462

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 17, 2026 at Chapel Hill South Funeral Home and Cemetery 11333 S. Central Ave. Visiting hours from 10:00 AM to 12:45 PM. Service will held at 1:00 PM. Internment immediately following service.

For those unable to attend in person, the chapel service will be live streamed. Please use the link below to join virtually:

www.asimplestreaming.com/amanderson