Thomas M. Anders

Thomas "Tom" "Andy" M. Anders, 91, of Westville, IL, went to meet the Lord peacefully during his sleep, June 24, 2023 at The Villas of Holly Brook, Reflections in Rantoul, IL. Tom was born February 23, 1932, in Danville, the son of Herbert Anders and Erma (Fleming) Anders. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Tom is survived by his wife, I.R. "Cookie" Anders; daughter, Melody Thomas; son-in-law, Carl Thomas; and grandson, Brayton Thomas.

Tom graduated from Danville High School in 1949. He attended college, but knew there was a better use of his ingenuity. In 1952, he married Cookie, his high school sweetheart and served in the US Air Force (Wichita Falls, TX and Rantoul, IL) as a Staff Sergeant.

Shortly thereafter he began Andys Auto Service (AAS). "Handy Andy" could fix anything. In 1967, he continued his passion for planes by taking flying lessons, earning multiple licenses. With the patience of a saint, Tom became a sought after flight instructor and charter pilot. The stories he would tell included interesting happenings with students, excursions with wonderful local businesses, uncooperative customs, and a challenging rock star.

Diversity served him well. When he wasnt spending quality time with his family, you could find Andy at AAS or in a plane. Retirement was not in his vocabulary. Andy did add a new hobby, history which he loved to share with everyone. He was often immersed in books, reading war books and encyclopedias. His knowledge of many subjects, endless wit, and compassionate love will be missed.

The celebration of life service for Thomas Anders will be at 3 pm on Friday, June 30, 2023 at Sunset Funeral Home, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL. Visitation will be 2-3 pm prior to the service. Burial will follow at Lutheran Cemetery in Danville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church (Danville) or St. Jude.

Services Visitation Friday June 30, 2023 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Il 61834 Funeral Service Friday June 30, 2023 3:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Il 61834