Brian Anderson Obituary

Brian Anderson was born in Pequannock, NJ on August 30, 1956 to Herbert and Grace Anderson. Tragically, Brian passed away unexpectedly in his home on May 1, 2024. Brian is now joining his parents, brother Richard Anderson, Brother-in-law Ed Laiso, brother-in-law Dieter Schwalbe, niece Jill Palladino-Arnott-Strasser, nephew Richie Anderson, brother-in-law Richard (Michelle) Rossi, mother-in-law Julia Rossi, and many other lost and loved family members, friends, and pets.
Brian is survived, loved, and remembered by his loving and devoted wife Bonnie, his wonderful daughters Juliann (Matthew) Geary, Chelsie (Alfred) Claus, and sweet grandchildren Aurora, Colton, Lincoln, and Olivia, sisters Kathleen Laiso and Dorothy Schwalbe, sister-in-law Irene Anderson, sister-in-law Linda (Steven) Therrien, brother-in-law Joseph (Carol) Rossi; and numerous beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Brian knew how to balance work, family, and fun. He was a dedicated worker at Oracle as an IT Specialist. Even with his impeccable work ethic and tech savviness, Brian still had time for fun. He enjoyed many sports and was an avid golfer, even golfing in the rain. Brian was always willing to coach, referee, and practice with his girls. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing upstate with family and friends. He always made time for his Giants, Rangers, Mets, and yes, even Bonnie's Yankees. Brian and Bonnie were able to enjoy many games together, even traveling to stadiums days before his passing.
Brian's favorite quote was "I am a simple man." Brian was the epitome of patience, calm, and cool. He could perfectly balance humor and kindness. He was dedicated to everything he did and everyone in his life. You know you are special when your older siblings look up to you! That was the kind of person Brian was. Brian might have thought he was "A Simple Man," but boy did he contain multitudes.
Brian always made time for others. He was a model of kindness and support for others. Brian had a knack for making anyone feel like he had known them for years. He knew how to show up for others. His nieces, nephews, and children's friends loved and adored him. His humor and hilarious facial expressions will be missed. His jokes and gags, especially between siblings, will always be remembered, even though he was lovingly known as one of the "pukes."
Brian made time for music. He was an avid music lover. He inspired his daughters, nieces, and nephews with his record collection of greats like Meatloaf, Boston, Journey, Jethro Tull, Moody Blues and Pink Floyd. He enjoyed many concerts, most recently attended a Floyd cover band and Metallica concerts with Juliann.
Brian made time for life's luxuries, like travel and food. East coast, west coast, south coast, Midwest, Brian would drive anywhere! Fine dining, sports bars, pasta making, grilling the best meats, Brian would partake in and cook it all. Tequila worms look out! On too many occasions to count, Brian would go out on a whim to spoil his family. Oh, those countless ice cream trips!
Brian was the model gentleman. He would never forget a birthday or special occasion, sending cute messages of love. Brian was a model husband, dad, and PopPop. His love for his family was undeniable. He was so proud of his wonderful daughters and grandchildren. He was the best PopPop any child could ever have.
Though we "Wish You Were Here," we "Know You're Out There Somewhere," we can hear the laughter, music, and clinking of glasses from above. We can smell the quality cigars smoking and meats cooking. We know he is relaxing in the pool and (though Brian would never admit it), we know he is counting the red threes together with his loved ones in the "Great Gig in the Sky."
We love you to the moon and back. You are loved dearly and will be missed with all our hearts.
The family will receive their friends for memorial visitation at F John Ramsey Funeral Home, One Main Street, Franklin, NJ on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 3-5 PM. Family share to follow at 5 PM. Cremation was private. Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers to a the ASPCA would be greatly appreciated.