John Lewis Anderson Jr.,  age 94, of Wilmington, DE,  passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025. He was born in Rising Sun, Maryland, the beloved son of the late John and Rachel Anderson.

John, affectionately known as "River Rat" by those who knew and loved him, spent over four decades as a dedicated machinist at the Container Corporation of America before retiring. His strong work ethic was matched only by his love for the outdoors. Whether fishing, boating, crabbing, or simply enjoying time on the water with family, John's happiest days were spent along the rivers and bays that brought him peace.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Marian, and his son, Warren. John now joins them in eternal rest.

He is survived by his devoted sons: Wayne (and wife Conne), John III "Jack" (and wife Mary), Roger (and wife Kim), and Ron (and wife Dee). He was a proud grandfather to Sunny, Shane, Shiloh, Jennifer, Jeffrey, John, Stacey, Amanda, Ben, Taylor, and Wade, and a great-grandfather to 19 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his loving sister, Shirley Hamm.

John had a green thumb and took great pride in his gardening—his homegrown tomatoes were especially prized among friends and family. A man of simple pleasures, he favored comfort foods like chicken and dumplings and fried chicken, though he could never resist a sweet treat. A loyal Dallas Cowboys fan for over 60 years, John also loved building birdhouses and feeders, tinkering in his basement and shed, and cruising the neighborhood on his scooter with a smile and a wave.

John treasured the time he spent at his vacation home in Riverdale, Millsboro, DE, a place of serenity and many joyful memories.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 30th, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. A funeral service and interment will follow immediately at All Saints Cemetery.

A special thank you to his caregiver , Aletha, from the Griswold Agency, for her compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Delaware Hospice in John's memory.

John's spirit, sense of humor, and deep love for his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

— The Anderson Family