Henry “Hank” William Anderson, 81, avid outdoorsman, loving husband and father, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully July 18, 2013, at his home surrounded by his family. 

Hank was born July 2, 1932, in Monroe, Wash., to Harold and Mary Anderson.

Hank graduated from Monroe High School. His adventurous spirit led him to become a Merchant Marine when he was 18. Hank traveled around the world. He was drafted into the Army in 1951 and served his country for two years. In 1966, Hank returned to the Merchant Marines, sailing the globe. 

He married his first wife, Mary Jane Bower, and together they had a daughter, Valerie Lisa Anderson. The family moved to Columbia Falls.

Following Jane's death, Hank met and fell in love with Flathead Valley local Ardis Rassmussen. The couple were married Oct. 5, 1959. Following the marriage, the couple settled in Columbia Falls, where they have resided ever since.

Hank worked as a heavy equipment mechanic foreman on the Alaskan pipeline. He worked throughout California and Montana.

Hank enjoyed all of the outdoor activities that are available in the area. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, trapper and snowmobiler, and regularly packed into the Bob Marshall and in the nearby mountains of Montana.

Hank and Ardis retired at their home in 1990. They spent most of their time with family and friends in the great outdoors. One of Hank’s favorite things was to go camping and fishing at Middle Thompson Lake.

Hank had a sharp wit and a mischievous sense of humor that was belied by the sparkle in his brilliant blue eyes. He was quick to laugh and enjoyed the time playing board games and cards with the family.

Hank’s health started to deteriorate a few years ago, but he remained active until his passing.

Hank is survived by his loving wife, Ardis Rassmussen Anderson; daughters, Valeri Scott, Wanda and Bill Rains, Teresa and Brett Ready, and Brenda and Dave Stewart; sister, Sally Anderson; seven grandchildren, Courtney and Ryan Cushman, Christopher Suwalski, Dustin Camp, Shaeleen and Nate Hopkins, Hank Ready, Chase Kolodejchuk and Cody Kolodejchuk; and three great-grandchildren, Ava Hopkins, Tray Hopkins and Landon Cushman.

The family will be holding a cremation memorial service at a later date for the immediate family only.

Memorials may be given in memory of Hank Anderson to the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Regional Headquarters Children's Fund, 490 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell, MT 59912.

The family is being cared for by Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home.