Ralph H. Anderson Jr.

RUTLAND - Ralph H. Anderson, Jr., 85, of Rutland, MA, passed away peacefully on January 8th, 2025. A lifelong resident of Rutland, Ralph was deeply committed to his family, his community, and his country. He was the beloved husband of Bernice Anderson for 49 years. He is survived by his children: Kathleen Cousineau of Rutland, Todd Anderson and his wife Christine of Rutland, and Nadia House and her husband Robin of Virginia. Ralph was also the proud grandfather of five grandchildren, Mason, Ashley, Toddie, Nathaniel and Dayton, who were a great source of joy in his life.

Ralph’s home and heart were open to many, welcoming them as part of the family. He treated them like his own children, and to this day, many of them lovingly call him "Dad."

He was proud of his Irish heritage and visited an amazing, loving family in Loughrea 17 times.

Ralph served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army from 1961 to 1964, and his commitment to public service continued throughout his life.

He was an active member of the Rutland community for over three decades. Ralph served as a volunteer firefighter, the town’s first EMT in the 1970s, and supported youth and community programs, including the Rutland Drop-ins Program. He was a member of the Rutland Historical Commission and Recreation Council, served on the Rutland Finance Committee for nine years, and started the town’s first AA program.

Ralph’s passion for service was evident in his contributions to town life. He helped organize and support numerous events, including the town’s 250th Celebration, PowWows, Fourth of July festivities, and Memorial Day programs. He also volunteered as Santa Claus at the local school for many years. Ralph had the honor of serving as Grand Marshal of the Rutland Fourth of July Parade on two occasions.

Among his many accomplishments, Ralph was the founder of a Revolutionary Reenactment group composed of youth from Rutland. This group traveled across New England, bringing history to life and fostering a love for the nation’s heritage among its members and audiences alike.

Ralph was also a Justice of the Peace, serving his community in this important role with the same commitment and dedication he gave to all his other endeavors.

The Rutland Police Department played a central role in Ralph’s life. From 1968 until his retirement in 1998, he served with dedication, becoming the town’s first full-time Police Chief in 1995. He held this position for 15 years, earning the respect and admiration of the community. Simultaneously, he worked as a supervisor for the Norton Company in Worcester for 30 years.

Ralph was a proud member of many organizations, including the Rufus Putnam Lodge (a 32nd-degree Mason for over 50 years), the Melha Shriners in Springfield, First Congregational Church of Rutland, American Legion Post 310, and both the Massachusetts and Central Massachusetts Police Chiefs Associations. He was a founding member of the Rutland Lions Club and a longtime member of the Rutland Sportsman’s Club.

Ralph had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, especially his Harley-Davidsons, and was a proud member of the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club. He cherished the freedom of the open road and the camaraderie of fellow riders.

He found joy in simple pleasures, like meeting with his breakfast groups to share laughs, good food, and meaningful conversations.

Ralph’s contributions to Rutland were celebrated in many ways. He was deeply honored when "Ralph Anderson Day" (June 3) was declared in recognition of his service to the community. In 2021, the town further honored him by dedicating the square at the corner of Main Street and Pleasantdale Road as “Ralph Anderson Jr. Square.”

Ralph is remembered as a people person who was well-respected and touched countless lives. He was a genuine, caring, and kind individual whose optimistic spirit shone through his signature reply, "Fantastic," when asked how he was doing. With a dry sense of humor and a knack for teasing, Ralph’s warmth and wisdom endeared him to all who knew him.

Many sought Ralph’s guidance as a mentor, trusted advisor, and friend. He always had a kind word, good advice, and an open heart for those in need. His legacy of service, dedication, and generosity will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Ralph’s family 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, on Tuesday, January 14th, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. The Rufus Putnam Lodge of Masons will conduct a Masonic memorial service at 7:00 pm. A funeral service celebrating Ralph’s life will take place at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 15th, at the First Congregational Church, located at 264 Main Street, Rutland.

Donations may be made in his memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital online at https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html or to the Jewish Hospice of Worcester online at https://www.jhccenter.org/make-a-donation/ .

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit his tribute wall.