William Harry “Bill” “Andy” Anderson
July 20,1952 - August 6, 2019
Andy was born July 20,1952 to Harry Elmour Anderson and Fern Marilyn Anderson (Emerson) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He had three other siblings; Mary, Danny, and Christy. Andy enjoyed band all throughout high school. He graduated in 1970 from Suitland High School in Forestville, Maryland.
On July 10, 1970, Andy enlisted in the Air Force. While in the military he did tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Greece, Virginia, and Indiana. He served his country for 14 years. He received the following awards:
- the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
- the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, with two oak leaf clusters
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars
- Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with two oak leaf clusters
- Air Force Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbons
- Republic of Vietnam Medal
After his military life, Andy went to St Leo’s College to earn an Associate’s Degree in Psychology. He used his degree as a drug addiction counselor.
Andy had a love of tinkering with his hands, from flipping cars, building and playing guitars, to carving amazing wood work.
Andy was passionate about building friendships with Veterans from all branches of the military. He enjoyed playing and teaching the guitar with his guitar group, and formed lasting friendships with his PTSD groups. He was inspired by the kindness they showed him, and in return he helped others in need.
While stationed in Udorn ,Thailand, Andy met Sahmart Chipimai. After a short courtship, they married in March 12, 1975. Sahmart had a daughter, Nittaya “Oiy”. Andy loved her as if she was his own and adopted her in 1982. Soon after, Andy and Sahmart had a daughter, Cynthia Amy born on August 26, 1977. Andy and Sahmart were divorced in May 2, 1986.
Andy then married Karen Todd on May 23, 1992. Their union lasted until her death on March 7, 2009.
Andy is survived by his two daughters: Nittaya Mertes (Joe) of Land O Lakes and Cynthia Amy Lester (Ken) of Wesley Chapel. Grandchildren: Donovan, Erin, and Joshua. Sisters: Mary Eaton of Maryland and Christy Imler of Oregon. Brother: Danny Anderson. In addition to many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Andy is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Fern Anderson. His second wife, Karen Todd.
There will be a Celebration of Andy’s Life at a later date.
In Lieu of Flowers, the family would love donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1097 in Andy’s name.
Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
4001 Sebring Parkway
Sebring, FL 33870
Online condolences may be left at:
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