Gary Anderson
Hello Classmates, We live in exciting times and I hope all is going well with you and your families. I currently live in Oshkosh Wisconsin and work for United Healthcare. I've been on the move in my career looking for that perfect company and the perfect job. From microbiologist, medical sales, marketing, hospital and clinic management, software installation specialist, to currently working as an IT project manager. I've been through 2 company mergers over the past 10 years (that was fun…not). I must have A.D.D. or some other disorder that keeps me in search of new challenges. I currently manage information technology projects that handle HRA, FSA, and HSA spending accounts. If you don't know what those are then that means you have good health insurance (just kidding).
I have two beautiful daughters in college right now. One is in her second year at Carthage College in Kenosha working on a degree in elementary education. The other started her first year at UW Oshkosh working on a degree in nursing. I've stressed that a strong education will keep you working in hard times and allow you to thrive in good times. But I have to say that college expenses are crazy these days. If you talk to me during the reunion I'll probably ask you for a donation to the kids college funds ;-)
I get up to Duluth every three to four months. My parents still live in the same 2 bedroom home I grow up in (with 8 other siblings). It is a true gift to still have my mom and dad around in this life. My dad is 90 years old and my mom is 86 years old. They still get after me once in a while, drink too much, don't get to church as often as I should, etc. But they are wonderful to visit…they always make me feel like I'm coming home for the first time.
Two events changed my life in 1996. I was in a car accident and my sister Kim was taken by cancer. The car accident slowed me down with neck and back problems. The death of my sister reminds me every day how fragile life is. I'm not a religious man but I hope to see her again some day. She was a hell raiser with a tremendous sense of humor. I miss her laugh and infectious smile.
The outdoors has been my friend over the years. I love to hunt, fish, hike, boat, etc... I just simply enjoy the great outdoors. I have a small cabin on an 86 acre lake in Phillips Wisconsin. It's the place I go to get away from work, stress, and these electronic devices that buzz, beep, and annoy me. I was also lucky enough to join the church youth group on a trip to the boundary waters two years ago. A true adventure to paddle and portage in that great Northwood's of Minnesota. If you haven't experienced that…I suggest you do.
People ask me all the time about my outdoor spirit….I tell them...I'm just an educated redneck.
See you in July!
Gary Anderson
Ps. Fish picture is from Lake Michigan.
(click on picture to enlarge)
