James M. Anderson, 79

James M. Anderson, 79, died peacefully at North Valley hospital in Whitefish on Feb. 23, 2010, with complications of emphysema. He was born May 5, 1930, in Seattle. He had been a longtime employee of the BN Railroad, retiring as assistant superintendent of transportation in Spokane in 1985. He had been a third generation railroader, beginning his career in Seattle in 1953 and furthering his work in Shelby, Vancouver, British Columbia, Klamath Falls, Ore., Whitefish, Minneapolis, Minot, N.D., and Spokane, before returning to Whitefish at his retirement. Surviving him are his wife of 57 years, Carol; sons, Scott, Mark and Tom and ex-wife Suzanne; grandchildren, Nick, Jessica and Aaron of Spokane; and Kelley and wife Dayna of Atlanta; and grandchildren Ryan and Hayley. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, Diesel and Elizabeth. His legacy is his wood carvings of a life-size cross and crucifix and Madonna in the church of St. Thomas Moore in Spokane. He enjoyed his many friends, neighbors, breakfast group and family. Prior to his illness, he was an avid hunter, short time skier, fisherman and camper. Private services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, c/o 10 G. Street NE, Suite 580, Washington D.C., 20002, or online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements under the care of Austin Funeral Home.