David M. Anderson

RICE LAKE, Wis. - David Merrill Anderson, 64, of Rothschild, died Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at his daughter's home in Rice Lake.

He was born Aug. 15, 1952, in Blue Island, Ill., to the late David and Edna (Keppler) Anderson. David graduated from Franklin High School in 1970 and attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee prior to serving in the U.S. Army.

Throughout his career, he helped others both build and capture memories, first as an architectural draftsman and commercial designer at Wausau Homes for over 20 years, then as an independent professional photographer and graphic designer.

David married the love of his life, Charlene Cox, on Dec. 4, 1971, in Bessemer, Mich. Above all, he loved his family and the time spent with them, especially with his grandson, Logan.

He leaves behind treasured memories for family and friends. David is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Anderson-Olson, of Rice Lake; a grandson, Logan Olson, of Rice Lake; a sister, Carol (Ken) Westbrook, of Cedarburg, as well as many special brothers- and sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces and cousins.

Beside his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Charlene Anderson, in 2014; and an infant older brother, David Bruce Anderson.

Private family services will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in support of the Never Forgotten Honor Flight. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Appleyard's Home for Funerals, 19 W. Messenger St., Rice Lake.

"A limb has fallen from the family tree.

I keep hearing a voice that says, 'Grieve not for me.

Remember the best times, the laughter, and the song.'

The good life I lived while I was strong.

Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you.

Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.

My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest.

Remembering all, how I truly was blessed.

Continue traditions, no matter how small.

Go on with your life, don't worry about falls

I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin.

Until the day comes we're together again."

-Author Unknown