Douglas R. Anderson, 64, of La Crosse, died Tuesday, November 7, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Health System, Sparta, after battling cancer.

He was born December 20, 1952, in Sparta to Arthur and Kathleen (Nottestad) Anderson.  He married Debbie Anderson and they had a daughter and a son before later divorcing.  Doug was a quiet man who had a passion for wolves and NASCAR’s Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  He also collected many coins and collectibles and some say that the Danbury Mint and the Bradford Exchange Companies will suffer without Doug’s many purchases!  He loved his dogs who were more than just his pets and gave him wonderful companionship through the years.  He was a talented woodworker and was in the middle of remodeling his home up until he died.  He also handcrafted a gun cabinet for his gun collection, each of which he enjoyed shooting with his friends.  Doug always enjoyed his Blatz beer and visiting with his friends at many local establishments.  He also looked forward to the times spent with his two granddaughters.  Doug had some hard times throughout his life but always tried to keep his chin up.  He never was the same after his brother, Jerry, and his son, Cody, died in the last few years, with whom he was very close.  We are content in knowing that Doug is at peace and happy once again being reunited with Jerry and Cody.

In addition to his daughter, survivors include two grandchildren, Savannah and Brooke and their mother, Victoria; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends, especially his dear friends, Jane Swanson and her son, Joe, Karen Taylor and her daughter, Jackie (Tim), “Doc”, and Randy, who were all there for Doug until the very end.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 6, 2018, and details will be announced closer to the date.  Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Coulee Region Humane Society.