After a long illness, John B. Anderson of Newcastle, WA, known affectionately as "Big John", peacefully passed away surrounded by family.

The youngest of six siblings, John was born in Seattle.  He grew up in Springfield, VA and Wilton, CT.  Prior to John's senior year of high school, the family moved to Renton, WA, where he graduated from Charles A. Lindbergh High School. John graduated cum laude from Washington State University with a degree in Business Administration.  A master craftsman, woodworker and custom carpenter, he was self-employed.

Big John lived a full life of adventure and love for family and friends.  He was an Eagle Scout and exceptional woodsman.  His favorite places were the wilds of the Pacific Northwest.  A master fisherman, his hand-tied flies were legendary—he could catch anything that swims.  John knew how to do, make, or fix virtually anything.  His determination and wonderful sense of humor helped him outlive his prognosis by years.  He made all he could of that time, fishing, crabbing, cooking, camping, and making countless memories with people he loved.

John was a fixture in the Renton Pool League for decades, where he made many lifelong friends.  He was an outstanding player whose teams dominated the competition.  He was a stalwart competitor, a model of sportsmanship, an asset to his teammates and a thorn in the side of his opponents.  John was also a rabid fan of his beloved WSU Cougars and took every opportunity to enjoy Cougar games with lifelong college friends.  The highlight of his summers were their annual "Camp Wazzu" "Cougfests" which continued, uninterrupted, since their college days.  His shout of "COOOUUUUUUGS!!!" still echoes.

John was preceded in death by his father, Robert H. Anderson, and brother, Michael. He is survived by his mother, Virginia Thomas Anderson, sisters Roxann Whitaker (Warren), Adrienne Smith (Jeff), and Sunny McClure; brother Robert Anderson Jr. (Karen); aunts Joan Petersen (Pete) and Vicky Barberio; and by many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.  John's marriage to Dominique LeFevre ended in divorce; he never remarried and Doe held a special place in John's heart to the end.  John was especially grateful during his last year for the compassionate care given by his nephew Jonny Smith.

Funeral Services will be held at 11a.m. on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Hawthorne Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Washington, followed by a graveside service at 1p.m. at Saxon Cemetery with a reception to follow at 2p.m. at Acme Presbyterian Church.

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.