Melvin E. Anderson

Melvin Eugene Anderson, 89 of Beardstown, died Sunday, August 24, 2025 at Beardstown Health and Rehab.

He was born August 2, 1936 in Beardstown, the son of Mede and Cora Crews Anderson. He married Linda Lou Ballard on August 8, 1958 at Lottie Morrow's home in Beardstown, and she preceded him in death on April 6, 2018 after 60 years of marriage.

He is survived by four children Lisa Zabel of Pleasant Hill, Amber Pate (husband Tom) of Beardstown, Lori Wilson of Springfield, and Stacey Erickson (husband Dirk) of Jacksonville; seven grandchildren Joshua McCabe (wife Kaitlyn), Alyssa Vernon (husband Mark), Sierra Doil, Haley Pate, Lilly Pate, Quinton Wilson, and Mallory Erickson; six great grandchildren Riley and Jeffrey Chappell, Kayleigh McCabe, Vincent Vernon, and Maci and Devonte Doil; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son Melvin Anderson, Jr., four sisters Helen Anderson, Audrey Mohlenbruck, Eleanor Van Hyning, and Grace Pauline Anderson; and six brothers Jesse, Robert, Carl, Lee, Alvin, and Clifford Anderson.

Melvin grew up on the family's Christmas tree farm. It was the very first of its kind in Illinois, established in 1932. Nothing brought him more joy than working on the tree farm, which he led for more than half a century. There, he grew and sold Christmas trees to families from near and far each year. Melvin also found happiness wandering the woods in search of squirrels, rabbits, deer, turkey, dove, and mushrooms. He loved the thrill of the hunt and the peace of nature. Melvin enjoyed fishing with his wife at Curry Lake. Melvin spent many hours working in his bountiful garden, which he took to local farmers' markets. Melvin was a devoted grandfather whose warmth knew no bounds and a friend to many, making lasting, heartfelt connections and bringing joy to everyone he met at Everest Supportive Living.

Graveside services will be held at 11:15 AM Friday, August 29, 2025 at Beardstown City Cemetery with Sherri Hamilton officiating. The family will meet with friends from 10-11 AM Friday at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown.

Memorials have been suggested to the Everest Activity Fund or Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.