Bruce M Anderson

In loving memory of Bruce McDonald Anderson. 

February 19, 1942 - February 11, 2025.

We honor a remarkable man who was filled with compassion, and whose life was dedicated to serving others.

Bruce was born, along with his twin brother Gordon, in New York City in 1942, to Dr. Charles Lee and Frances Behnes Anderson, joining their five-year-old sister Gail. He lived in several states before settling in Houston 50 years ago.

Bruce’s interest in helping others was demonstrated early in his life, and he carried that interest through earning a psychology degree from San Jose State University in1964. After graduation, he served two years as an officer and company commander in the Army Corps of Engineers. He then earned his MBA from Florida Atlantic University in 1976.

Professionally, Bruce worked as a human resources executive for fifteen years before transitioning to organizational consulting. In 2002, he and his wife, Judith O’Connor, co-founded Thinking Partners, Inc., an executive coaching firm. 

In this role, Bruce specialized in leadership development. He was a pioneer of professional coaching and organized a senior leadership coaches’ group. He was a founding member of the International Coaches Federation and established a chapter of this group in Houston. 

Bruce was always available to those he knew and to those who were referred to him. He initiated network connections, and never tired of offering personal and professional expertise and support in any way he was asked. His personal interest and ability profoundly impacted many lives and shaped many successful careers. 

He was actively involved with the Mankind Project in Houston, dedicating time to the elder community. He also served on the Advisory Board of the Prison Entrepreneurial Program. He worked with Boys to Men Texas, whose mission is to empower adolescent boys, through community mentoring circles, to better their lives.

While facing pulmonary fibrosis health challenges in 2020, Bruce founded the nonprofit Pulmonary Success Circles, which offers information and support for those dealing with this respiratory disease. These chapters are nationwide.

Outside of his professional and philanthropic work, Bruce had a zest for life. He was a continuous learner and found wisdom in books and thoughtful conversations. He was an expert in computer capabilities, was a skilled sailor, loved to belly laugh, relished good food, traveled widely with Judith, and treasured her love and devoted attention over 27 years of marriage.

Bruce cherished time with his beloved son Barry and his wife Mary Christ Anderson and three precious granddaughters Cassie, Stella and Ollie. He remained close with his Portland family: nephew Don Upton and his wife Maureen Upton; niece Lea Upton Kidder and husband Matt Kidder; grandnephews Kai and Easy; grandniece Genevieve Ellis and husband Ryan Cook and their newly born son, August (Gus) Cook. Bruce and Judith spent many July 4th's in Vermont getting to know Judith's extended family of 10 siblings.  He was especially close with Judith's sister Fran and her husband Wes.

Bruce died peacefully at home in his bed with a deep contentment on his face.

He is predeceased by his parents, twin brother Gordon and sister Gail Upton, his former wife Michele Devore and their youngest son Brian.

We are all blessed with memories of his love and attention. Our world is a little less bright without Bruce’s curious mind, probing questions, and belly laughs.