Donald David Anderson

Donald David Anderson of Junction City, OR, passed away peacefully in Springfield, OR, on February 16, 2026. He is survived by his wife of nearly 62 years, Marianne (Carroll), daughter Jana Bishop of Junction City, OR, and son Jay (Stacie) of Sherwood, OR; five grandchildren: Kyle (Claudia) Anderson, Brandin (Jessica) Bishop, Calvin (Annie) Anderson, Levi Bishop, and Hannah Bishop; and five great-grandchildren: Aubree, Ryder, London, Lenny, and Georgie. He is also survived by an older (he states for the record) sister Darlene Bressie of Beaverton, OR.

Don was born on October 1, 1942, in Bellingham, WA, to Donald O. and Mildred (Stranberg) Anderson. After graduating from Mount Baker High School, he worked his way through college at Western Washington

University pulling lumber off the mill green chain and also cleaning a fish processing plant, both at night. It was at Western Washington State College (at the time) that he meant his wife to be as they both studied for careers in public education. Later, he earned an education Master’s Degree from the University of Puget Sound, and Doctorate from Brigham Young University.

Don began as an elementary teacher in Tacoma, WA, and during the summers served as a seasonal park service ranger at Olympic National Park. His ranger career was cut short when firearms began to be required, and when he transitioned into school administration. He served as Assistant School Superintendent in Prineville, OR (Crook County), Independence, OR (Central), and McMinnville, OR. He served as Superintendent of Schools in John Day, OR and retired from the Junction City (OR) School District where he served for 11 years. In his retirement free time he served as Interim Superintendent for the Crow, Applegate, Lorane (OR) school district for two years.

Don was an outdoor enthusiast, especially enjoying hikes, camping, and cutting firewood in the Ochoco National Forest. He was a sports fan, always supporting local high school teams even on long road trips. The last two games he watched on TV were his Seahawks winning the Super Bowl and his Zags winning yet another regular season game. He was a ravenous reader, checking off as many as 70 books a year. It was especially appropriate that he passed on President’s Day, as he was a lover of presidential history and has an impressive library. Don was devoted to community service as a long-time member and president of the Lion’s Club and Chambers of Commerce. He was active in local churches as a Sunday School teacher and board member. He was an especially devoted family man who was “always there.” His first priority was always his faith in, and following of, Jesus of Nazareth.

Don will be buried, alongside many family members, in Napavine, WA, at a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Convoy of Hope worldwide relief charity.