Robert Martin Anderson, 103, of Rockford went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 15, 2025. Born December 6, 1921 in Rockford; son of Gustav Albert and Fannie (Krans) Anderson. Bob's parents were born in Sweden, and he was always proud of his Swedish heritage. Graduate of Rockford High School. Bob obtained his Bachelor Degree from Western Illinois University in Macomb, and his Master's Degree from Stout State University in Menominee, WI. He was united in marriage to Faye Schwitters on April 22, 1967 in Rockford. Bob and his wife, Faye invited many Chinese students into their home for meals and to share the Gospel message in China through the Mission to Unreached People for 20 years. Prior to that, he was a Vo-Tech teacher for Rockford Public Schools. In his younger years, he also worked at Camera Craft and Pitney Bowes. Bob was a member of First Free Church in Rockford. He loved America and was a true Patriot. Bob was a dedicated Boy Scout Leader and a member of several area car clubs. Bob owned a Model T Ford, and several MG cars. Bob enjoyed spending time in nature, bird watching and taking photos. He learned how to operate computers at a young age and enjoyed them immensely. He was a true Renaissance man, always learning, exploring and sharing his knowledge with others. Survived by his nieces and nephews, Karen Akerlund Adell, Bill (Jean) Sanders, John (Betty) Akerlund, Jane Sanders Brass; nephew-in-law, LaVerne Larson, the most dependable and caring Christian man who lovingly cared for Bob; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and his special Chinese Friends, Ayla (Steven) Carlson, Lucy (Michael Xu) Lin, Serena (James) Stravers, Lily (Graham) Stitz, Pamela (William) White,Allen (Meilin) Yang, Angela (Josh) Yu, Jun (Haruko) Zhu; special friend, Martin Espinosa; caregiver, Candice Joyner; and former caregiver, Kathy Schneider. Preceded in death by his parents, wife, Faye; siblings, Philip Anderson, Frances Sanders and Florence Akerlund. Memorial Visitation on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at First Free Church, 2223 N. Mulford, Rockford; followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m.. Pastor Chuck Rife will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his memory may be made to the Mission Fund at First Free Church. Share a memory or condolence at
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