Thomas Wayne Anderson, 77, of Ironwood, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 4, 2019.      Tom was born on September 19, 1941 in Minnesota to Arvid and Nan (Gustafson) Anderson. He was a graduate of Edina High School. After graduation from high school he served his country in the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge he returned home and attended college at the University of Minnesota. He worked for over 30 years as a salesman. He sold for over 15 companies selling household items.       Tom was a good man who was liked by all who knew him. He was always willing to lend a hand to a friend. He loved the outdoors and would always prefer to be outside, rather than inside. He loved hockey. He loved to play as well as watch his beloved Detroit Red Wings. He loved his dogs and had a very special bond with his Lab-Huskie mix, Shadow. He also enjoyed reading and writing poetry and was also a published poet.       Tom will be sadly missed by his life partner, Coleen Peterson; daughter, Heidi (Mark) Bonner, of Wilson, North Carolina; grandchildren, Aidan and Cian; special nieces, Cindy (Mark) Krey, of Plymouth, Minnesota and Denise Atwood, of Bloomington, Minnesota; cousin and close friend, Bob Gustafson of Westminster, Colorado; his best friend and business colleague, Dieter (Rosie) Spichal of Germany as well as many other relatives and friends.       He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Arvid Anderson, Jr on January 15, 2018.       In accordance with Tom’s wishes, there will be a private celebration of his life this coming summer.       McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home of Ironwood is serving Tom’s family. To express condolences, please visit www.mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com .