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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John "Milt" Anderson, who left us peacefully at home on March 24, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer.
John was born on October 9, 1952 in DeKalb, Illinois to John Milton “Milt” and Phyllis Anderson.
John is survived by his loving partner, Michele French; his brother, Dan (Joan Nugent) Anderson; his sisters-in-law Andrea (Paul) Sebby, Angela (Dick) Collin, and Julie Cochrane; his cherished daughter, Chelsea Sommers; and his granddaughter, Ava Sommers, the true light of his life. He is also survived by nieces Robin (Andrew) Kudless, Kristin (Layne) McIntosh, Audra (Jonathan) Bell, Olivia Sebby, Lauren Collin, and Hannah Sebby; nephews Ryan Scott, Alex Scott, and Austin Sebby; great-nieces Eva, Nora, Eleanor, and Freya; and great-nephew Julian, all of whom he held dear. Additionally, John leaves behind his dear friend Jimmy Ball, along with many other lifelong friends whose bonds he treasured.
A passionate fan of all sports, John was a lifelong supporter and all-weather fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears. His unwavering loyalty to these teams was matched by his love for golf, where he created countless memories with family and friends and, admittedly, lost more than his fair share of bets.
One of John's fondest memories was attending the Masters Tournament in Augusta with his father and his brother—an experience that remained close to his heart throughout his life. After graduating from DeKalb High School, John dedicated many years to the Byron Nuclear Plant and Northern Illinois University, where he worked tirelessly until his retirement in 2023.
John was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Milt and Phyllis Anderson, whose love and guidance shaped him into the remarkable man he became.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to his hospice nurse, Sheila, whose compassionate care and unwavering support brought both comfort and laughter to John and Michele during his final days.
John's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of kindness, love, and dedication will never be forgotten.
The family will hold a private memorial at a later date.
For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JOHN "MILT" ANDERSON, please visit our floral store.