Gary Michael Anderson

Gary Michael Anderson was born January 3rd 1943 in Granger, Washington to Glen and Ruth Anderson. He was the second youngest of seven children. Gary married the love of his life, Betty Newman, on March 14th, 1964, and together they built a life that reflected their faith in their savior, and their deep love for each other. Together they raised five children: Jerry, Julie (Bill Sharp), Andy, Felicia (Roger “Cash” Fiander), and Ruby, fifteen grandchildren and several great grandchildren, all in which their legacy lives on.

Gary was a foundational pillar of the Granger community. He served, protected and defended the City of Granger as a police officer in which he was the first K9 unit handler, later being promoted to police sergeant. He was always seen as tough but fair, but others would say he was a force to be reckoned with. Gary went a step further to serve his community by serving two terms as Granger’s mayor. During this time he was very supportive of the idea to continue expanding the dinosaur theme throughout our community. When he wasn’t patrolling the town with his K9, Rocko, he was driving trucks for the local feed mill. As well as having driven school bus for the Granger School district. He served his church and Lord faithfully as a presiding deacon under Rev. Dunn at the Assembly of God Church in Granger, proclaiming the gospel any time he had a chance. But above all, he loved his family fiercely. Gary was the first person to offer a helping hand, a kind word, a heartfelt prayer or just an ear to listen. To know Gary was to know a true friend, and a true reflection of Christ’s love. 

Gary, a good and faithful servant, finished his race, kept the faith and entered into his reward on September the 3rd 2025.

The viewing and visitation is set for Thursday, September 11th 2025 from 5pm-8pm. Funeral will be held Friday, September 12th 2025 at 12pm with graveside service to follow at the Outlook Cemetery.  The family invites all who can to bring their favorite food or a sweat treat to share and join the family as they honor Gary’s life and legacy at the Granger Lions Club following the graveside service. Those wishing to sign Gary’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

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