John Dennis Anderson

Below is the death notice of John "Jack" Anderson, Class of 1955. Brother of Thomas Anderson, Class of 1953, the late Donald Anderson, Class of 1958 and the late Richard Anderson, Class of 1963. Please keep the Anderson family in your prayers.

John Anderson age 86, born June 3, 1937, passed away November 1, 2023. John Dennis Anderson, born on June 3, 1937, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Maumee, Ohio, peacefully departed from this world on November 1, 2023, surrounded by his loving husband, Christopher Bell, and family. His passing was quick, painless, and marked the end of a life dedicated to service, education, and the betterment of others.
John was the beloved son of the late LeRoy B. Anderson and Margaret Anderson McGovern and was affectionately known as "Jack" to his family. Raised in Rocky River, Ohio, he attended St. Christopher Elementary School before graduating from St. Edward High School in Lakewood in 1955. His academic journey took him to Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later to the Jesuit Seminary, where he entered on August 8, 1957.

Throughout his life, John touched the hearts of many as a devoted sibling to Thomas (Anne), the late Don (Diane), the late Barby, Mary Beans (Harry), and the late Richard. He is remembered with love by numerous nieces and nephews.

John's commitment to education and spiritual growth led him through various stages of life, from the Loyola Novitiate in Milford, Ohio, to teaching history, religion, and politics at St. John's Jesuit High School in Toledo, Ohio, and Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. He entered the Society of Jesus on June 3, 1973, and served until September 8, 1993, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those he taught and mentored. John's love of learning continued throughout his life; every day he read and discussed topics relating to history, religion, and politics.
Following his departure from the Society of Jesus, John embarked on a new chapter, making a significant impact on the lives of students at the University of Illinois Chicago. He served as the Internship Director for the Business Career Center for over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and professional journeys of thousands of students. John's kind nature, caring spirit, and dedication helped guide students in choosing career paths, securing internships, and finding employment after graduation. He took great pride in their success and maintained connections with many long after they graduated.

In his 20 plus years at UIC, John Anderson became a cherished figure, remembered fondly by alumni, faculty, and staff. His legacy of compassion, guidance, and unwavering support will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all those he touched. John retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and kindness that will be remembered for generations to come.
A service to celebrate John's life will be held later in the Spring of 2024. Details to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to John's high school alma mater, St Edward High School, 13500 Detroit Road, Lakewood, OH 44107, in John's honor.

May his soul rest in eternal peace and may the memories of his love and impact bring solace to those who mourn his loss.

Posted on: November 15, 2023