Robert "Bob" Luverne Anderson

In Loving Memory of Robert Luverne Anderson 

May 3, 1927 – May 12, 2025

Robert (Bob) Anderson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully at his home on May 12, 2025 just nine days after celebrating his 98th birthday. Born on May 3, 1927, in Duluth, Minnesota, Bob lived a remarkable life of love, adventure, humor, and heart—a life truly well-lived and deeply cherished by all who knew him.

Bob was married to the love of his life, Eunice Naomi Wickstrom, for an extraordinary 74 years. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, laughter, and family. They were blessed with four children: Dennis (deceased), Nancy, Susan, and Debby, as well as 8 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren and a growing number of great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life.

A U.S. Army veteran, Bob was deployed to Japan following World War II. After returning home, he joined the family business Andy’s Service, a full-service Skelly Gas Station and US Royal/Dayton Tire Distributorship, which later became part of Michelin and Bridgestone. Later he partnered with his brother Rodney to open a used car dealership.

Bob had an adventurous spirit and an enduring passion for motorsports. He loved snowmobiling in the Minnesota winters and had a lifelong love for racing – especially NHRA drag racing. He followed his nephew’s career in the NHRA circuit and attending the races whenever possible. After retiring, Bob combined his love for cars and family by building a “mud truck” and racing it on weekends with his daughters -turning his love for motorsports into a family tradition.

In 1980, Bob and Eunice moved to Casselberry, Florida, where they built a home on a golf course and embraced retirement. He quickly became known as “Golf Ball Bob” for his beloved hobby of hawking, cleaning, and selling golf balls—just one of the many ways he found joy in the simple things.

Bob also had a brilliant mind for cards. He loved playing all kinds and Cribbage was his favorite. Even in his later years, he never missed a chance to challenge someone to a game, often with a friendly wager of a dollar. His competitive spirit and sharp wit remained strong to the end.

Though Bob officially retired at 50, he never stopped living life to the fullest. His goal was to reach 100 years old – a goal he pursued with his signature humor and optimism. When asked how he managed to live so well for so long, he would smile and say, “Two things—I married a good woman, and every afternoon we have happy hour together. I would drink one Manhattan… and sometimes, two.”

Bob was loved by his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends for his honesty, humor, and huge heart. He was always there to offer advice, support and left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his son Dennis, parents Andrew (Andy) and Gladys Anderson, and brother Rodney. His legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, June 21st at 11:00am at Newcomer Funeral Home, 335 E State Road 434, Longwood, Florida. Bob touched many lives with his humor, heart, and humanity. He will be deeply missed—but never forgotten.