Memorial Service to be held: Sat 2/11/17 2:00 PM Harrison Square Presbyterian Church Centralia, WA In lieu of flowers consider donation to one of his favorite charities: Covenant House Prison Fellowship Habitat for Humanity Doctors Without Borders American Red Cross Bert had a heart for people, especially children, who are vulnerable and in need. Bertram John Anderson May 16, 1928 - January 17, 2017 Integrity Compassion Dependability Bert was one of five children born to Steven and Hope. The children had to work from an early age to earn enough money for food, clothes and coal to get them through the cold Maine winters. Bert showed an early interest and aptitude for mechanics when he assembled a tractor engine from parts in a box and made it work. Old cars, coins, clocks, watches, and bird-watching remained passions throughout his life. After graduating high school, a source of great pride to his working class mother, Bert and his twin Paul and enlisted in the Army and served with honor in the Korean conflict. During his time overseas he kept pictures and corresponded with his sweetheart, Doris who he married upon his return stateside Bert was proud of his four sons and worked diligently to provide for the family. He enjoyed projects around the house and saved money by maintaining his own cars and in designing and building his own houses. He owned and managed apartment buildings and developed a busy engraving service. His "honey-do" list was always complete. He remained devoted to Doris till his final day. He was a man of great faith who could be seen each morning reading his Bible and kneeling at his chair to pray. He was a kind and generous neighbor who jumped to help anyone in need. He was proud of his work at a box factory where he enjoyed giving occasional tours and rose through the ranks to become plant manager. After retiring from International Paper he ran for Connecticut State Judge of Probate on a platform of integrity, compassion, dependability. He won because it was true. Besides estates and weddings he was responsible for precedent setting end-of-life decisions and adoptions. He bought commemorative coins as personal gifts to adopted children. Though never an attorney and though he took only a few college courses, he received "high commendation" from the Connecticut court for his services. Truly a remarkable man he was survived by his wife Doris; his siblings Philip, Jean, Esther, and twin Paul; his children Keith, Terrell, and Kevin; his grandchildren Nathan, Luke, Abby, Kyle, and Kelsey; and his great granddaughter Rosie. We miss him!