James Alan Anderson, age 77 of Lake Delton, Wisconsin, passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

A memorial service for Jim will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Picha Funeral Home – Lake Delton with CaSandra May, MS, LCSW, Rev. presiding. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until the time of service at 2:00PM.

James Alan Anderson was born on February 14th, 1947, in Daggett, Michigan to Edwin and Audrey Anderson. He was one of 6 siblings who grew up on a small family farm. At just 15, Jim met his lifelong partner Celia Jean (Kobishop) Anderson. They married on May 14th, 1966. James was drafted during Vietnam and stationed in Germany. Following his discharge, Jim and Jean created their life together in Menominee, Michigan. Many things have changed over the years, but not Jean's love for him. He is and will always be her one and only true love. In 2017 Jim and Jean relocated to Lake Delton, WI to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

James is known by many names: Jimmy, Andy, Jim Bob, Daddy, Mr. Wilson, Bubba, Big Guy & Papa. This reflects the fondness so many had for him. Jim was a larger-than-life character. He had a way of connecting that made everyone feel special. Born on Valentines Day, he was given a huge heart which he shared freely with so many, especially children. Adored not only by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, Jim was also a beloved bus driver in the Menominee Public Schools – Bus #4 "The Packer Bus". He was honored twice on the front cover of the local newspaper, with one title exclaiming "Every ride with Anderson is a Joy Ride."

A life depicted by so many close and endearing relationships; he will be sadly missed but fondly remembered. His spirit and love of life itself has been instilled in his children, grandchildren  and great grandchildren. This is his legacy.

He is survived by his wife Celia Anderson, his children Cynthia (Anderson) & Steven Schick, Christina Anderson, grandchildren Samuel & Yuliia (Savitska) Schick, Julia (Schick) & Clinton Ndlovu, Joseph Schick, great grandchildren Markus, Marcel and Nyla, siblings Edwina Wandersee, Harlan & Judy Anderson, Roger & Debra Anderson, Debra & Ronald Ullmann, Gary & Pam Anderson, many nieces and nephews and special friends Cooper and Kassidy.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Edwin & Audrey Anderson, in-laws Jerome Kobishop & Betty Gross, brother- in-law's Donald Machalk & Donald Wandersee and nephews David Machalk & Douglas Kamin.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial fund benefitting Emergency Rescue Squad, Inc Marinette/Menominee and Dells-Delton EMS Lake Delton.