William Walter Anderson's Obituary
William (“Willy”) Walter Anderson, 92, passed away on October 10, 2025. He was born on February 26, 1933, to Walter and Cora Anderson in Tacoma, Washington. He was a son, husband, father, friend, mentor, teacher, scientist, and a man of faith.
After graduating from Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington, he went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees at MIT in electrical engineering (1956) and a Ph.D. from Stanford University in electrical engineering (1959). He was a faculty member at Stanford University from 1960 to 1965 and at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio from 1965 to 1975. He returned to California where he worked at Lockheed in Palo Alto for over 30 years as a research scientist. During this time, he received many federal grants to fund his work as well as receiving 5 patents.
While attending MIT, he met Anne Jeanette La Pointe and they were married in 1954 in Westborough, MA. They had three children: David W. Anderson, Carolyn J. Anderson, and Kevin A. Anderson.
His faith was an important part of his life. After retiring he continued to hold leadership roles as a deacon, leading adult Bible studies, and participating in a support group for care givers. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and eating at very nice restaurants. His children and grandchildren were a source of joy in his life, and he enjoyed spending time with them.
Willy was preceded in death in 2012 by Anne after 58 years of marriage and by Marlene Carder in 2018 after one year of marriage. He is survived by David (Julie) Anderson, Carolyn Anderson (Earle Heffley), Kevin Anderson; grandchildren Geoffrey (Jessica) Anderson, Sarah Heffley, Britta (Raymond) Winfrey, Christopher Heffley; and great-grandchildren Blair Cahalan Winfrey, and Brooke Winfrey.
A memorial service to celebrate Willy’s life will be held October 22, 2025, at 11:00am in the Crystal Springs Chapel at Skylawn Memorial Park, 888 Lifemark Road, Half Moon Bay. Following a light meal at 12:00pm, the burial will be at 1:00pm.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?