Michael S. Anderson, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Michael S. Anderson, Sr.
June 27, 1953 – August 24, 2026

Our Mike was a visionary thinker, devoted mentor, talented artist, and deeply spiritual soul who passed away peacefully and much too soon. He leaves behind a legacy defined by an unwavering and loving heart, intellectual brilliance, a resilient approach to life, and a rap sheet of youthful mischief that his family still laughs about today.

People First, Always 
While his intellect built the framework, his heart drove the mission. Mike firmly believed that business was ultimately about human connection. Taking care of the people involved in his ventures - from partners and investors to employees and clients - was always his absolute top priority. He led with empathy, ensured everyone was supported, and created communities within his businesses. He lived and worked by a simple, defining motto: "If we are not having fun, we are not doing it right." He brought laughter into boardrooms and reminded everyone that the journey should be as rewarding as the destination.

An Intellectual Pioneer 
Mike possessed a rare and brilliant mind. He was a true innovator and entrepreneur in the business world, renowned for originating complex business processes and architecting unique investment opportunities that challenged conventional thinking. Where others saw complications, Mike created innovative solutions, providing opportunities for teams of hard-working individuals. His professional achievements were vast, yet he measured his success not by numbers, but by the lives he elevated.

“Why let the truth get in the way of a good story?”
Beneath his sharp business mind lay a wonderfully droll wit and a famously dry sense of humor that developed early in life. As a boy, Mike was a magnet for trouble - most notably the time he accidentally burned down a neighbor’s orchard, or when or when he used blasting caps to shred neighbors’ mailboxes, or when he decided to take his dad's Jaguar for an unauthorized spin and got spectacularly caught.

He never lost that playful spark. Mike always had a clever joke or a captivating story ready to lighten any room – note that his stories became more grandiose with each telling - for example, Mike often said that in high school he dropped gym class with the boys and instead took a dance class with the girls. “Why not spend my time with the better-looking half?!” That story evolved over the years to include cooking classes, sewing classes, home economics classes...you get the idea.

He delighted in making people laugh, often delivering his affection with a trademark straight face, telling those he cared about, "I love you. And, I really mean it this time." Not one family party went by without Mike joking that he never understood why mom and dad had any children after him because perfection had already been achieved.

Fast Cars and Fine Cigars
Mike’s cigar humidor is epic. He even had his own cigar brand. The end of the day was frequently capped with a fine stogie but some of Mike’s absolute favorite days were spent with the wind at his back, driving one of his exotic automobiles. Mike loved driving his cars in charity events; and one event in particular, the Utah FastPass Road Rally. FastPass was a charity event for the Utah Highway Patrol's Fallen Officers Fund. Entry fees and mock speeding tickets issued by the officers patrolling the event were given to the Fund. Mike was issued a mock ticket for a speed that was so egregious that it warranted Mike’s “arrest.” The officer stepped forward to place handcuffs when Mike turned and complemented the officer on his “soft hands.” The crowd and the officer erupted into riotous laughter. Mike brought that same high-octane energy and enthusiasm to his deep spirituality, his intriguing artwork, and his love for traveling the world.

A Loving Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather
Above all his other accolades, Mike was an incredibly loving, fiercely protective, and generous father and grandfather. His children and grandchildren talk often about the many times Mike heard them, understood them, and completely accepted them. He reinforced their worth, celebrated their potential, and elevated their spirits. He poured everything into his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, endeavoring to teach them the value of hard work, and to laugh often.

Ever on, Michael!

Mike is now reunited with his loving wife, Patti; his parents, Gary and LaRae Anderson; and his in-laws, Verl and Norma Ritchie.

He is survived by his children, Mike Jr., Sarah “FC” Kay (Nathan), Juliet Hogan (Andrew), and Sklyer Jensen; his dear companion, Judy Martin; his siblings, Michele Walton (Dana), Kevin Anderson (Anne), Kent Anderson, and Christy Abad (José); his 6 “groovy” grandchildren and 1 “angelic” great-granddaughter; his nieces and nephews, and his cherished “furry dependents.”

Mike also leaves behind a vast network of friends and colleagues whose lives were forever changed by his wisdom, generosity, and unforgettable spirit.

Celebration of Life 
Dear friends and family, we will be inviting you to join us and share your stories of Mike at a Celebration of Life on September 19.

To honor Mike's generous heart, please consider making a memorial donation to one of his absolute favorite non-profit organizations:

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary - The world's largest no-kill sanctuary for homeless companion animals, located in the red-rock canyons of Angel Canyon just outside Kanab, Utah.

Donate online: https://bestfriends.org/sanctuary

Utah 1033 Foundation - A non-profit charity that gives immediate financial and educational support to the families of Utah law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.

Donate online: https://utah1033.org