Barbara A. Anderson

Barbara A. Anderson (Barbie), age 54, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2018, surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of John and Joan (Cox) Walters. Barbie graduated from Saint Francis High School in 1982. She attended Northwestern Michigan College and graduated from the Insurance Institute of America in 1994. Barbie married the love of her life, Rick Anderson on October 15, 1983 at Saint Francis Church in Traverse City. Their 35 years of marriage have been a blessed gift from God, an example to us all what true love and partnership is. They have loved, lifted, laughed, supported, and held each other up so preciously. Above all, their children – Johnathan, Lance, and Alayna – were her greatest treasure. Her love and pride for each of them cannot be measured. She will forever remain in their hearts; cheering them on, celebrating from Heaven each accomplishment throughout their lives. Family was everything to Barbie. She was especially close with her mother, Joan. Throughout the years they were in several cross-country ski races together. She very much enjoyed caring for and helping her mother. She loved going to Aunt Binky’s for Harbor Days and all the beach outings with her in Elk Rapids. Barbie adored her Grandparents and always treasured time with them throughout her life. She and her mother in law Shirley shared a unique and special friendship. This reunion in Heaven will be a remarkable and joyful one. Barbie loved baking, cooking, canoeing, camping, going to Gramps beach, flower shopping at Colleen’s, planting flowers around the house, and family time. Barbie enjoyed gymnastics as a young girl and remained active throughout her life. During her chemo and radiation treatments and throughout her battle with cancer, Barbie went to the gym. Even when it was too painful to walk or use her hands – she remained determined to meet with her trainer, always with that brilliant smile on her face. This helped her keep strong and fed that positive attitude. “Girls Weekends” with her life-long dearest friends were a special treat. She cherished these gals with all her heart and will be laughing in the background with them, each time they gather together… With the exception of the years Barbie stayed home to raise her children, she always had a job and loved to work. She started at the ID Boutique, then continued onto the Insurance field. She started at Thompkins & Inglis Insurance and went on to GHA Insurance. The last 10 years have been with her work family at Peterson McGregor and Associates. Throughout their marriage Barbie has worked beside Rick; instrumental in the development, growth, and success of Anderson Outdoor Services. She sat on the board for Traverse Catholic Federal Credit Union and assisted with starting Mothers in Christ. Barbie was always active in supporting her children. Whatever sport or activity their children were involved in – she was there. She never missed a game, match, race, or event. She was and will forever be their number one fan. There were many years that Barbie was right down on the football field with the middle school football boys, helping with whatever they needed – every single day. Barbie has taught us countless lessons that can’t be found in any book. Just by being ‘Barbie’, she has inspired so many. Barbie’s unwavering faith in God and her acceptance of His plan for her have been a miracle to witness. Barbie’s ‘Sparkle & Shine’ attitude has taught us to remain positive, determined, and happy, no matter what. Her famous statement “Smile On” has encouraged so many to not dwell on negativity, and the only thing to be sad about is if you can’t smile! Barbie’s contagious laugh and brilliant smile are loved by all and have filled so many hearts. Our beautiful memories and the lessons she has taught us will live on in our hearts forever. Barbie will forever be missed by her husband, Rick; sons Johnathan and Lance; daughter, Alayna; mother, Joan Walters; brothers, Jim (Kim) Walters, Bob (Terra) Walters; father in law, Phil Anderson; sister in law, Barb (Jim) Jaquish; brothers in law, Gary Anderson, Jim Anderson; sister in law, Jill Anderson; nephews and nieces, Emily, Ben, Abbie and Heidi Walters, Brent, Maia and Owen Walters, Holly (Andrew) Thomas, Thomas and Scott Anderson, Whitney (Aaron) Johnson, Bailey Anderson; great niece, Kendyl Thomas; and many very special aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. Barbie was preceded in death by her father, John Walters; brother, Ronald (RJ) Walters; mother in law, Shirley Anderson; and sister in law, Debbie (Baatz) Anderson. A visitation will be held at Saint Francis Church on Thursday, March 8, from 2 to 4pm and 5 to 7pm, with a Rosary to follow. Funeral services will take place on Friday, March 9 at 4pm, at Saint Francis Church, with a visitation from 2:30 – 3:30pm. Father Ken Stachnik, Barbie’s dear friend who helped nurture her spiritual life will officiate. A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 10th. Memorial contributions in honor of Barbie can be directed to Cowell Family Cancer Center or The Father Fred Foundation. “Count your Blessings, Give Hugs and Smile On!” ~ Barbie Anderson

Barbara A. Anderson

January 23, 1964 - March 5, 2018