Lawrence Oscar Anderson
1931 - 2025
Lawrence Oscar Anderson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated community servant, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, at the age of 94 in his home in Cromwell, CT Born on April 17, 1931, in Hartford, Connecticut, Larry was the son of the late Alice Parson Anderson and Oscar Nils Anderson. He graduated from Middletown High School as a member of the Class of 1949. Following graduation, Larry proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1949. He served his country during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953 before being honorably discharged. He delighted friends and family for years with his accordion playing, bringing smiles and warmth to many gatherings. In his youth, Larry played center field for Cromwell in the Middletown Baseball League. He also found great joy on the golf course as an avid golfer, a pastime he enjoyed for many years. Among his proudest contributions was founding the Cockroach Open Golf Tournament, a beloved tradition that brought together friends and laughter year after year. After his military service, Larry pursued further education and earned an Associate's Degree from Hillyer College. He went on to work for his father's company, Berg Pest Control and eventually became the owner of the company, leading the business from 1979 to 1995. Larry was a pillar of his community and held numerous roles that reflected his deep commitment to service. He served as Commander of American Legion Post 105 in Cromwell and was a member of VFW Post 2138 in Rocky Hill. A proud Freemason, he was a Past Master of Washington Lodge 81 F&AM. Larry also served in Cromwell Auxiliary Police and was a constable. Larry was an active member of the Cromwell Zoning Board of Appeals. In 2004, Larry was honored as Cromwell's Man of the Year by the Knights of Columbus-a testament to the lasting impact he made on his town and neighbors. His faith was central to his life. He served as Junior Warden at Trinity Church in Portland and later as Sexton at St. Andrew the Apostle in Rocky Hill. Larry also found fulfillment in volunteering as a hospice worker at Middlesex Hospital. Larry's joy for life and music was infectious. On April 4, 1959, Larry married the love of his life, Ethel Bidwell. Together they shared a beautiful life for 66 years, raising a loving family and building lasting memories.
Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Ethel Anderson; his three children: Laureen Cannata and her husband Michael of Higganum, Rebecca Rodbourn and her husband Mark of Cromwell, and David Anderson and his wife Jean of Center Conway, New Hampshire. He also leaves behind his brother Richard Anderson and sister-in-law Bonnie Anderson and Carolyn Anderson, as well as three cherished grandsons: Zachary Cannata and his wife Emily of Denver, CO; Alex Cannata and his wife Kristen of Cromwell, CT; and Nathanael Rodbourn of Cromwell, CT. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. Larry is predeceased by his brother Raymond Anderson. Larry will be remembered for his unwavering sense of duty, his warm heart, and the many ways he gave back to his community. His legacy of service, faith, and love will live on in all who knew him.
Calling hours will be held Friday, May 9th at the Cromwell Funeral Home, 506 Main Street, Cromwell from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10th at 10:00 a.m. at St Andrews the Apostle, 331 Orchard Street in Rocky Hill. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 13th at 12:00 p.m. in the State Veteran Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Larry's memory to the St Andrews 100 for 100 fund at 331 Orchard St., Rocky Hill, CT 06067. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.