Joseph Smith Anderson

Joseph Smith Anderson, 90, passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at his home in Surprise. He was born February 7, 1930 in Colonia Pacheco, Mexico. He was the youngest of 9 children born to William Anderson and Myrtle Amy Palmer Anderson.

At the young age of 10 as soon as school was out for the summer, he would get his survival gear together, saddle his favorite horse and head out into the mountains to hunt, fish and enjoy the beauty of nature and the solitude he loved. His dad, a little worried about him, being out alone at such a young age, went into the mountains to check on him and make sure he had plenty to eat. When he found him, Joe was fixing a delicious meal. They sat down to eat and when he finished eating his dad said, “You are eating better here than we eat at home!”

Joseph married Mary Josephine Parker December 10, 1952. Their son, Michael Joseph was born September 19, 1953. Joseph enlisted in the United States Navy December 29, 1951 and served on 2 ships, the USS Essex (CVA-9) and the USS Polex (AKS-4). He received an honorable discharge from the Navy December 28, 1959.

On December 28, 1960, Joseph married Bertha Johanna DeVillers. On April 14, 2006, Joseph married Nancy Darnell. They were together in their home; Nancy caring for his every need when he peacefully passed away.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Nancy Durnell and son, Michael (Mary) Anderson, 2 grandchildren, Avery Michael and Courtney and great grandson, Brice Michael. He is also survived by his step-sons, Gordon (Karen) Gregg, Carmjohn (Janine) de Stefano, George de Stafano, Stephen (Judy) de Stefano, Perry (Evon) de Stefano, 13 step-grandchildren and 3 great step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 8 siblings, Mabel, Leonard, Verda, Flora, William, Hazel, Myrtle Eva, and Melvin and his previous wives.

A viewing will be held Friday, October 23, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. at Burnham Mortuary, Eagar, followed by a graveside service at 1:00 p.m. at the Eagar Cemetery.