Edwin Charles "Bud" Anderson

Edwin Charles "Bud" Anderson, age 60, passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at his home in Bigfork. He was born on Sept. 14, 1944 in Minneapolis to Edwin O. and Florence (Ost) Anderson.

The family moved to Bigfork when Bud was 2 years old. That is where Bud's dad started his own Masonry business building native stone fireplaces. Bud graduated from Bigfork High in 1962. He went to Montana State and graduated with a BA in Construction Technology in 1967. He then entered the Air Force as a 2nd lieutenant and went to pilot training at Wichita Falls, Texas. The spring before graduation Bud met the love of his life, Nina Stout. They later married on Dec. 23, 1967 and spent 37 wonderful years together. In May of 1968, Bud received a hardship discharge to come home and take over the family business after his father had a heart attack. Bud and his brother Don later became partners and built Anderson Masonry into a successful construction company. In the early 80s along with their partner Tom Arvidson they started a retail masonry store that has now grown to two stores strong.

Bud loved the outdoors. He spent many days and nights hiking and climbing the mountains of western Montana. He loved the wilderness and spent many a fall at the "black bear" hunting camp. He taught his children to love and respect mother-nature. There were many family fishing, camping, hiking trips to ensure that his passion for the outdoors was passed on. His other passion was golf. He enjoyed his Thursday afternoon rounds with his pals playing "bingo, bango, bongo" and helping Tom fish for golf balls in the river.

As his friend Denny said, "How fitting that Bud was in the Brick and Mortar, rock and stone business. In his quiet confident way, was the bedrock upon whom so many of us leaned. Three simple words for this most special friend: None better-ever."

"My husband was one who led and you willingly followed. His confident, solid presence gave those around him such a feeling of security."

"My dad built this family out of brick and stone, so it would last forever. He is the cornerstone to be loved and remembered forever." Love Jay.

As his daughter put into words, "My Dad was the most unselfish, giving and loyal person I know. He took care of us all; his friends, his employees and his family. I have a feeling he will take care of us long after he is gone. He was a damn good man."

Bud was preceded in death by his father Ed; his brother Jim and his brother-in law Howard.

Bud is survived by his wife Nina of Bigfork, and two sons, Justin Anderson and his wife Beth and their two children Lauren and Mason of Missoula, MT and Zack Anderson and his wife Sally and their daughter Ashley of Bigfork; one daughter, Katie Radtke and husband Rex and their son Jackson of Hall, Mont.; his mother Florence Tigges; two brothers Don Anderson and wife Sheri, Richard and wife Michelle; three sisters, Pat Johnson, Sandy Fellows and Shirley Harrison; many nieces, nephews; and his dog Andy.

Memorial service for Bud were held on Monday, May 23, at the Bigfork Chapel Assembly of God, 290 Hwy 83. There was no visitation. The family suggests that donations go to the Bud Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund Account at the First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 5388, Kalispell, Montana 59903-5388, attention Peggy.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Bud's family.