Clyde R. Anderson

Clyde Anderson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and dedicated public servant, passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 69, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 23, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, to Helen and Ernest Anderson, Clyde's life was a testament to hard work, community service, and the joys of family. 

Growing up alongside his brother Clay, Clyde's values were shaped by the ups and downs of family life and a close-knit community. Early on, he developed a strong work ethic and a keen sense of what truly mattered in life. This foundation would serve him well throughout his remarkable career and personal life. 

Clyde's passion for serving his community was evident from a young age. He began as a firefighter in the suburbs of Detroit, which marked the start of a long and distinguished career in public service. For over four decades, Clyde dedicated himself to law enforcement, first distinguishing himself in patrol and rising to the rank of Sergeant in Northville Township. Seeking a slower pace of life, Clyde and his family moved to Colorado, where he continued his service as a Deputy Sheriff and later as the Emergency Manager for Moffat County, tirelessly working to protect local businesses and citizens. 

Clyde's commitment to helping others extended beyond his professional roles. He was an active Red Cross volunteer and an experienced wildfire firefighter, bravely battling the infamous Hayman Fire in 2002, which held the record as Colorado's largest wildfire for 18 years. 

Clyde would often invest in family projects as well, taking cross-country road trips to his family farm in western Pennsylvania.  There, he spent many hours on the family’s old Farmall tractor, splitting wood, and anything else which needed doing as long as his parents needed him.  

In 2005, Clyde and his wife Sally relocated to Greeley, Colorado, to be closer to their daughters. Here, Clyde took on a new challenge as a criminal investigator for Tobacco and Liquor Enforcement for the State of Colorado. Throughout his career, Clyde consistently prioritized the public good, resisted administration interference in funding and cases, and focused on making a positive impact in his community. 

Outside of his professional life, Clyde’s life was defined by passions for his family and a deep love of cars and the mechanics of automobile systems, where you might find him spending time as a mechanic in his off hours, before and after retirement.  His own project truck, a beloved Forest Service pickup truck from Dodge became a years-long passion project, eventually owning side by side “old” and “new” versions in forest service green with a dream of one day taking them to a car show.   

Throughout his life, Clyde was known also as a lover of Boston Terriers and fishing trips, as an avid do-it yourselfer, and for baking with his grandkids, all of which brought him great joy and relaxation. 

Clyde Anderson is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Sally Anderson, and their daughters Kelly and Lauren. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Charlotte, Genevieve, and Dominic, who will carry forward his legacy of love, dedication, and service. 

Celebration Of Life Service will be held at Adamson Life Celebration Home 2000 47th Avenue Greeley CO 80634 starting at 11:00AM followed by a luncheon.