Wayne Barlow Anderson

Wayne (87) peacefully passed away Friday, August 7, 2015 at his home in Kalamazoo. He was born on November 11, 1927 in Middletown, NY, the only son of Austin and Marion (Barlow) Anderson. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dana (Carder), his two sons, David (Teresa) and Mark, and four beloved grandchildren: Heather, Kevin, Thomas, and Jessica. He served in the United States Army before moving to Chicago, IL, where he met his wife. After working at the Calumet railroad yard, he continued his education at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. Following the birth of his first son, the family moved to Kalamazoo, MI, and Wayne began his career at First National Bank and Trust of Kalamazoo (PNC). He was promoted to Vice President of Commercial Lending in the late 1960s. From that time until he retired, he loved the business people that he met. He was most proud of helping businesses both new and old acquire a sound financial footing and enjoyed sharing in their success. Physically active throughout his life, Wayne was a dedicated runner for more than twenty years, racing in the Kalamazoo Klassic and other local races. He logged hundreds of hours of swimming at the YMCA, conquering the Great Lakes Challenge. He competed in the Senior Olympics for six years, earning Gold Medals in both sports, as well as others. After accompanying Boy Scout Troop 205 to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, he discovered a passion for backpacking, which led to extended treks with his sons in both the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains. Inspired by a shared passion, he and Dana purchased a summer cottage at Eagle Lake, Texas Township, and enjoyed four decades of lake living. He loved nature in all of its forms and was an avid bird watcher. Most recently, he enjoyed walking the trails of Parkview Hills. His greatest passion of all was his grandchildren. He loved attending their sporting events, cheering from the sidelines and reveling in their accomplishments. His generous, loving presence will be greatly missed. Cremation has taken place. Friends may visit with the family from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, August 23rd at the Parkview Hills Clubhouse (3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo, MI 49008). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamazoo Nature Center or the Kalamazoo Foundation (Alzheimer's Fund).