Orville Robert Anderson

Orville Robert Anderson

Orville Robert Anderson was born on January 25, 1955, in Havre, Montana, to Orville and Pearl (LaTray) Anderson. In 1957, he moved with his family to Anchorage, Alaska, while it was still a territory, where he lived until 1962. During that time, he witnessed Alaska become a state in 1959 and was famously waved at by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, “Ike, Ike!” he had exclaimed while waiving back. He later moved to Anaconda, Montana. He spent most of his childhood riding his bike and fishing, his teen years exploring on his Honda CT90, then graduated from Anaconda High School in 1973.

In 1974, Orville worked for the Anaconda Copper Company in the Smelter for six months, primarily in the reverbs and across the copper floor on the converter side before deciding to pursue further education. He balanced work and schooling, holding various jobs at Galen and the Montana State Hospital while attending Montana State University–Bozeman, the University of Montana, Montana Tech, and Northern Montana College. He earned a degree in Electrical Technology from Montana Tech in 1983, though he ultimately chose a different career path. 

In 1978 Orville met the love of his life, and most thoughtful person, Celia (Peterson), who he then married on September 6th of 1983 after welcoming their first son in January of 1983. Orville returned to school, after having his third child, and completed his registered nursing degree at Northern Montana College, graduating as Salutatorian in 1992. That same year, he earned his ANCC Certification in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, which he maintained throughout his career. Orville worked as a Registered Nurse at St. James Hospital, Galen, and ultimately the Montana State Hospital, where he served until his retirement in 2013.

A proud member of the Little Shell Tribe, Orville greatly enjoyed discussing family history, tribal history, and general history with anyone willing to engage. He was the best storyteller with a remarkable memory. His many hobbies included watching his children at various events, traveling to Missoula to visit his grandchildren, skiing, riding motorcycles, photography, tying flies, fishing, leatherwork, hunting, yardwork (loved Caras Nursery in Missoula and took pride in his garden), walking his dogs, and building model kits. His modeling projects included the complete Aurora monster collection, the Titanic, as well as cars and planes.  He was incredibly thankful for his health and his body’s fight, despite his diagnosis. He was strong, optimistic, determined, loyal, and the most loving husband, father, and “Papa” … thankful for his time on this Earth. “I think, therefore I am.” -Descartes.

On December 26, 2025, Orville passed surrounded by his family. He is at peace after a courageous five-year battle with cancer. The family and Orville would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his good friend, Maynard Gwin, Sr. (who called or visited daily), Dr. Hueffle and the Oncology staff at Anaconda Community Hospital, as well as Pintler Hospice, for the care and comfort provided to Orville at the end of his life. 

Orville is survived by his wife of 42 years, Celia Anderson; his son, Nicholas Anderson; his daughters, Karla Anderson and Dana (Alex) Basile; his grandchildren, Sadie, Anders, and soon 3rd baby Basile; his dogs, Bailey, Panda, and Missy; and several beloved extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Pearl Anderson; his son, Trevor Anderson (the first soul he hoped to be greeted by), and many other loved family members and lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of one’s choice. Per Orville’s request, no public service will be held. A private burial will take place at a later date.