Gilbert Anderson

Stoughton- Gilbert James “Jim” Anderson, age 71, entered his next chapter on Sunday January 23rd, 2022, in New York City, surrounded by love after bravely fighting cancer for 7 months. Jim was born March 20, 1950, in Whitewater, Wisconsin to Clarence and Grace Anderson. After growing up on a farm, he graduated from Whitewater High School in 1968 where he also wrestled. He later attended the University of Wisconsin- Madison and graduated in 1972 before moving to Berkeley, California.

In 1975, he joined the Unification Church in Berkeley and later moved to New York City, where he ran the classified department at News World Communications. In 1979 he attended a theological seminary and graduated in 1981.

On July 1, 1982, he married Debbie Anderson. Jim and Debbie moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 1987 where they started their family. Bradford, Vanessa, and Alisa were born before they found permanent roots in Stoughton, WI in 1990. This is where he started a wholesale floral company and welcomed his second son Austin in 1994. Despite his dedication to growing a successful business, he prioritized watching his children in sports and activities and being home for family dinners.

His life dramatically changed direction when Debbie was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2012. During this time, he fully devoted himself to finding her the best treatment and care until she passed in 2013.  Hearing her sing at the Grand Ole Opry was one of Jim’s favorite memories during this time of adversity and he was honored to be by her side until she passed.

In 2016, he married Susana Pearson and enjoyed his time with her playing the piano, gardening, and traveling the world. During his final few months, Jim and Susana spent their time in Manhattan where Jim received treatment after he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in June of 2021. Although at times his treatment was uncomfortable, Susana’s patience, love, and support was the light he needed during this time. The entire family would like to thank her for supporting him to the very end.

Jim was a loyal and devoted father, partner, brother, and friend. He will be dearly missed.

Jim is survived by his wife Susana Pearson; his children, Bradford Anderson (Katie Sappey), Alisa Anderson, Vanessa Anderson, Austin Anderson (Latoya Lozoya) and Sholina Pearson; his brother Ralph Anderson (Vivien Fiset); sisters, Carol (Ernie Witzke), Marian Anderson and Nancy Henze (David Henze); and grandson Christian Anderson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Debbie Anderson and his parents, Clarence and Grace Anderson.

Public visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Tuesday February 1, 2022, at Cress Funeral Home in Stoughton. For close family and friends, a visitation will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday February 2, 2022, followed by services at 11:00 AM at Cress Funeral Home and burial at Riverside Cemetery in Stoughton.

Jim would like any donations to go to Champions In Life, supporting youth soccer programs in the Middle East, click here .

Please share your memories of Jim by posting on his Tribute Wall.

Cress Funeral Service

206 W. Prospect Street

Stoughton, WI 53589

(608) 873-9244