James Dean Anderson

PENDLETON- James Dean Anderson, 82, of Pendleton, passed away peacefully at his home on April 21, 2026 surrounded by his loved ones.

Jim was born July 5, 1943 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan to the late Eugene and Naomi (Burris) Anderson and spent his childhood in Dugger, Indiana where he enjoyed exploring his surroundings and swimming with his friends in the stripper pits of the coal mines.

At age 12, Jim moved with his family to Pendleton where he lived for the remainder of his life. He loved the memories spent with friends swimming in the summer and ice skating in the winter at Falls Park.

Jim was a 1961 graduate of Pendleton High School. He retired from GM Delco-Remy and Magnaquench after 35 years of service. He often referred to himself and co-workers as "factory-rats" and made many lasting friendships from those years.

Jim's hobbies as an adult included archery, riding and working on motorcycles, wood carving and he loved listening to every kind of music. After retirement, he enjoyed camping, hiking, backpacking and canoeing, especially in the wilderness of the Quetico Provincial Park in Canada.

Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Fairy Ann Anderson; children, James D. (Andy) (Tracy) Anderson and Shelli (Brady) Lutton; step-daughters, Tracey (Jon) Fonacier and Trisha Hover-Catron; grandchildren, Jimmy and Toby Lutton, Joshua, Jonah and Ethan Anderson, Miranda Powell, Riece Hover, Jordan Catron, Adam and Sophia Fonacier; nieces and nephews, Lori Swan, Bruce Swan, John Swan, Kathi Anderson and Kevin Anderson; and his faithful canine companions, Zeke and Uma.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 year-old sister, Marilyn Jo; brother, Don Anderson; sister, Connie Swan and brother-in-law, John Swan.

A celebration of life will be held later this summer and publicized for friends and family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Musical Family Tree Inc. in memory of Jim or First United Methodist Church Buddy Bag Mission, 1215 Jackson St., Anderson, Indiana.

Arrangements entrusted to Bozell Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, Pendleton, Indiana.