[The following was presented by Oklahoma State Senator Connie Johnson at the funeral of Col. Robert D. Anderson, USAF Retired on September 15, 2008, at Crossing Community Church in Oklahoma City]

Citation of Condolence

Whereas, Bob Anderson, a devoted husband, loving father, and friend to the fatherless, was not only a hearer of God’s Word-which teaches us to love one another, to do good to those who hurt you, to forgive as you want to be forgiven, and to love God with all of our hearts, souls and minds-but also a doer of the Word; and

Whereas, Few know the story of the extremes to which Bob Anderson practiced his faith: his restorative justice pursuits that led to the redemption of many, but to two people in particular, one of whom is here today (almost a free man), and another who is successfully recovering daily, living in another state and, thanks to Bob Anderson, is now giving back to society as a counselor to others enslaved by addiction; and

Whereas, Bob Anderson’s life represents a model of ethics and behavior that can change the world if we are all able to achieve his level of passion and commitment to restoration of our fellow humans; and certainly this is a life that is supremely deserving of the respect and admiration of the Oklahoma State Senate for a job well done by a good and faithful servant.  The Senate extends heartfelt sympathy to his widow, Helene, and commends her to place her trust in the same God who guided her husband’s purpose and path.

Now, therefore, pursuant to the motion of

Senator Constance N. Johnson

The Senate of the Great State of Oklahoma hereby extends to

The Family of Bob Anderson

sincere condolences and directs that this citation be presented.

                                                                              Sen. Constance N. Johnson

                                                                             Sen. Mike Morgan, President Pro Tempore

Oklahoma State Senator Connie Johnson

[Bob Anderson's obituary was published in the Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008 edition of The Oklahoman]

Retired Colonel Robert “Bob” Anderson passed away Sept 9, 2008 in Oklahoma City.  He was born June 3, 1929 in Topeka, Kansas to Theodore Cryder Anderson and Winifred (McCollough) Anderson.  Bob spent most his childhood in Tulsa, OK graduating from Will Rogers High School in 1947.  He received a degree in aviation and space engineering from Oklahoma University.  Bob married Helene Wyatt and together they were the proud parents of four wonderful children: David, John, Fred, and Marjean. 

In addition to his accomplishments as a husband and father, Bob had a commendable 30 year career with the United States Air Force.  He was a fighter pilot serving missions in Korea and Viet Nam and was the left wingman in the USAF Thunderbirds during the 1954/1957 tour.  After serving his country and receiving numerous medals and awards, including two distinguished flying crosses, two silver stars, and ten air medals, Bob embarked on a second successful career as a life insurance salesman in Oklahoma City. 

In addition to his business career, Bob was active in his church and civic activities, including Oklahomans for Children and Families (OCAF), where he served as president for over a decade.  Bob was an active member of the Daedaleans, whose mission is to encourage young people in aviation careers.  He was also involved in Bible Study Fellowship, a Monday morning prayer breakfast, and was an active member of the Life Builders Sunday school class at Crossings Community church.  In addition, he was an active worker in the Republican Party for many years. 

Most recently, Bob has been involved in the rewarding work of prison ministry.  Bob loved playing golf and had many wonderful days on the golf course with his foursome, “three Bobs and a Stan.” 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his children David and Marjean.  He leaves behind his wife Helene, son John and daughter-in-law Linda, son Fred, and six grandchildren: Christopher, Brian, Kimberly, Justin, Matthew, and Jonathan, and six great grandchildren.  He is survived by his two brothers, Ted of Las Vegas, NV and Don of OKC. 

Donations may be made, in Bob’s memory, to Oklahoma Family Policy Council, 3908 Peniel, Bethany, OK 73008, phone 787-7744, or Citizens Caring for Children, 3317 Wynn Dr., Edmond, OK 73012, phone 359-2695.  Visitation will be held Sunday from 12 to 6 at Smith & Kernke, 14624 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City.  Services will be at Crossings Community, 14600 N. Portland Ave. OKC, Monday, Sept. 15, 2008 at 2:30 pm, followed by interment at Memorial Park Cemetery.