Chuck Anderson 9/01/1929 - 8/10/2025

Charles Sherman Anderson (Chuck), 95, of Auburn, California was a searcher of knowledge. Chuck now knows the answer to one of the questions he studied and sought out through his passion for reading and discussions with people of varied backgrounds and beliefs – what happens after life. Chuck passed quietly on August 10, 2025, at home where he had lived for 56 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn, and his brother, Doug. His brother Al passed shortly after Chuck. He is survived by his children, Jan Livingston (Joe), Karen Hogans (Stan), and Kurt Anderson (Debbie); five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Chuck was born in Winthrop, Minnesota, to Nester and Ethel Anderson. He attended high school in Jackson, Minnesota, and graduated from the university at South Dakota State, where he studied engineering, played football, and fulfilled his ROTC commitments. Chuck married his college sweetheart, JoAnn Soe, on April 6, 1952. He was commissioned into the United States Air Force and later served as a reservist, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, while building a civilian career with CalTrans. Drawn by sunshine, Chuck moved his family to San Luis Obispo, CA. In 1969, they moved to Auburn, where he and JoAnn built a lasting community. In retirement, Chuck created a Japanese-inspired garden, welcoming visitors to walk its paths and sit in reflection. An early riser and lifelong outdoor enthusiast, he found joy in people and nature. He served as a mentor and friend to many, always seeking to be a blessing to others. A lifelong reader, he remained curious about human nature and personal growth. Chuck had a strong faith built through constant learning and discussion. He was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Auburn and Holden Village in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. Chuck will be laid to rest along with his caring and loving wife, JoAnn, at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California.