My friend Doug Anders

Published 2:23 pm Wednesday, January 4, 2023

On Jan. 4, I lost a friend; he was more like family. When I was young and would have trouble at home, he and his wife Donna would always let me stay with them, and in doing that, I felt as though they were more my parents than my parents were.  I remember Doug Anders as a robust military man; I can still see him walking through the house in his navy dress blues, thinking that is what I want to do when I grow up. So as a child, I admired him and thought of him as a brave war hero. He was commanding and had a vast knowledge of nearly everything. I also remember he was gone a lot with the reserves, and when he was home, he always worked to provide for his children. Lillian, Adam, Gena, and of course, his wife.

As the years went by, we drifted far apart; his family and I were separated by several states when I traveled to Michigan to live. But I never forgot them, and when I returned, I had a son and was remarried. And then we reconnected, and I am glad I did. My son Elijah adored Doug and would talk to him for hours and hours about everything. Sometimes tho, life gets in the way. And we get busy and don’t get to spend as much time as we like or should with those closest to us. I will never forget Doug Anders as a man that loved his family and put them before himself. He wanted the best for all of them and worked to make it happen. He loved Donna unconditionally, which was evident when any time was spent around them; you could see how much they adored one another. I feel a significant loss knowing he is gone, but I also know he loved the lord, and one day we will all see him again. So this is my goodbye to my friend, but it is only for now. I will see you later, my friend!