Thomas Val “T.A.” Anderson: 1948 – 2023
Thomas Val Anderson, “T.A.” to those who knew him, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 in a tragic car accident.
Born on Christmas Day during the 1948 Blizzard in Scottsbluff, Nebraska; Thomas was the son of John D. Anderson and Eunice M. Anderson. He was the oldest of three children.
Thomas grew up on the Anderson Family Farm in Henry, Nebraska and went to school in Torrington, Wyoming until the family moved to Casper, Wyoming in 1965, where he completed his junior and senior years of high school at Natrona County High School. While there, Thomas was an exceptional athlete, participating in football, basketball, and track. In fact, he was awarded six varsity letters, was an all-state track and field athlete, and he was even voted to be ‘Athlete of the Year’ in 1967.Thomas graduated high school in 1967 and went on to the University of Wyoming College of Engineering, where he graduated with a degree in civil engineering. He was also part of the ATO fraternity, a brotherhood that remained strong throughout his life.
Upon completing his degree, Thomas took the position of Engineering Manager for Steel Structures Inc., where he worked for 36 years until Steel Structures retired the business. He proudly created T. Anderson Consulting and remained active until his final day.
In addition to his career, Thomas was active on numerous boards and organizations throughout his life. He was a member of the Wyoming Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors since 2009, and served as the chair of that board for two-and-a-half years to include being a member of NCEES. Additionally, Thomas served on the board for Big Brothers Big Sisters for seven years, holding the chair for two of those years, he was also the President of The Casper Country Club in 2003.
Even more important than his career, however, was his family. And that family, like many families, began at The Beacon Club in Mills, when Thomas met a breathtaking young woman named Judith. It was love at first sight, first drink, first dance and their lives would never be the same. The two were married on September 12, 1981. Not too long after, they welcomed their first baby, in addition to Judi’s two children from a previous marriage. Creating a beautifully blended family.
His strength and his comforting, loving ways always presented themselves when they were needed the most. When you had a bad day, he just knew, and he was always there with an extra long hug. He was a big man, almost 6’4. But the largeness of his frame paled in comparison to the size of his heart. He was a big teddy bear that anybody could come to for comfort. And many people did.
He taught his children to love unconditionally and to always look at people as individuals no matter the barriers. He taught his children, nephews and many of their friends to appreciate and respect the outdoors by sharing his skills of hunting, fishing, camping and golfing, every moment being a teachable moment. For Thomas, church was the golf course, mountains, or the middle of a creek with a fishing pole in his hand. That was his church. That was his peace.That’s where he felt God the most.
Thomas was a devoted husband to Judi for nearly 40 years, until Judi passed away due to complications from COVID-19 in 2020. Around that time, Thomas was diagnosed with colon cancer, which he beat. While in remission, Thomas was diagnosed with Alzhiemers, but he didn’t let that slow him down.
Thomas lived each day with light and with love, meeting any obstacle or challenge with a positive attitude. For countless people, he was a mentor, a kind and witty soul that would help you with anything at the drop of a hat. He was a hand on your back, guiding you through your next decision. He was a safe place. He was home.
Thomas may be gone, but his light still burns and his legacy remains. He was a wonderful husband, dad, brother, papa & uncle.
He is survived by his three children: Samantha S. Anderson of Casper, Wyoming; Stuart (Brandi) Atnip of Casper, Wyoming; grandchildren, Dallen, Ellise; and DesaRae (Jeff) Janszen of Tampa, Florida; grandchildren, Christy, Jimmy, Cody, and Sydney; brother, Dr. James (Cody) Anderson of Casper, Wyoming; sister, Janet Anderson of Cheyenne, Wyoming; multiple, nephews, nieces, cousins, honorary kids/grandkids, and endless friends.
He is preceded in death by his father, John D. Anderson; mother, Eunice M. Anderson; and wife, Judith A. Anderson.
Services will be held on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Newcomers Funeral Home. Following the service, there will be an “epic” celebration of life at the Casper Country Club. The service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time.
Thomas Anderson had something of a catchphrase. It was a simple one, just three words. But it became his mantra. Thomas may no longer be here, in the flesh. But he’s still around. He’s still shining that light and spreading that love. He’s still the hand on your back, guiding you. And maybe we won’t be able to see him again, here on earth. But maybe we will. Maybe, when we’re on the golf course, in the mountains, or standing in a creek with a fishing pole in our hands, taking in the beauty around us…maybe we’ll see him there. Maybe we’ll feel him. And maybe we’ll hear him say, one last time, “Onward and upward.”
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wyoming Dementia Care: P.O. Box 1493, Casper, Wyoming, 82602 or to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Wyoming: 400 E. 1st Street, Suite 310, Casper, Wyoming, 82601.
Pauline (Morales) Banks: 1957 – 2023
Our beloved mother, Pauline (Morales) Banks, 66, of Cheyenne, was called by the Lord on May 16, 2023, resting peacefully surrounded by her loving animals and “son”.
She was born January 15, 1957, to Emilianao, Sr. and Ignacia “Betty” Morales, in Laramie, Wyoming.
Pauline grew up in Laramie and attended Laramie High School. During those time she loved to be with her friends and close cousins being young and having fun. While with these friends she met the love of her life, Henry Banks, Jr.
She married Henry on January 16, 1980. During this union they had their children and created an amazing life.
Pauline and Henry loved to take their family on many fishing trips, they enjoyed the outdoors and the quality time with the kids.
Over the years Pauline worked as a custodial worker, most recently being at Microsoft. She also worked at Godfather’s pizza and enjoyed all the customers she was able to help and meet. She made a lot of friendships that she cherished greatly. Pauline always smiled while juggling both jobs.
She always had unconditional love for her animals, they were just like her other children. The Dallas Cowboys had a special place in her heart for she was a huge fan, she loved to cheer them on. When she was not cheering on the Cowboys, she enjoyed watching old westerns, WWE, Andy Griffith Show, and Judge Judy. But nothing compared to the time she got to have with her grandchildren, that was the most important thing to her.
Pauline was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Lee Banks, Jr.; parents; grandparents; two brothers’ four sisters; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She is survived by her three daughters, Christina (Will) Morales, Tonya Banks, and Paulette (Andrew) Smith, all of Cheyenne; step-daughter, Heather Plesencio; brother, Emiliano Morales, Jr., of Rock Springs; grandsons, TeJean, Jaydin and Kyler; granddaughters, Ariea, Aribella, Kyianiah; four godsons, Tracey Asherry, Emiliano Morales, III, Chase Weaver, and Eric Plesencio; two great aunts, Helen Montez and Mary Laugheed; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, in Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel.
Marilyn Anne Goodrich-Tangeman: 1954 – 2023
Marilyn Anne Goodchild – Tangeman, age 69, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away Friday, May 19th surrounded by her family. Marilyn was born on March 31, 1954 to Harlan and Arlene Goodchild in Powell, Wyoming.
In her youth, Marilyn grew up in a variety of communities in Wyoming including Powell, Laramie and Cheyenne, and also moved around the U.S. Marilyn met her first husband, the late Michael Drake, in Illinois and they were married in 1981. Michael and Marilyn welcomed three children into this world, Brandon, Briana and Brett.
Marilyn’s professional career included working at Thermopolis High School in Thermopolis, WY, and Carey Junior High School in Cheyenne, WY as a paraprofessional. She assisted with multiple grants and projects during her career. Marilyn left an immense impact on students and co-workers due her to the care and kindness she presented on a daily basis.
Marilyn met Michael Tangeman later in life, and their love grew profoundly. Over the last decade Marilyn enjoyed her retirement by gardening, adventuring with Michael in the wilds of Wyoming, camping five months of the year in and around Vedauwoo, and staying in cabins in the Black Hills watching the sunsets while enjoying a glass of wine.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, Michael Tangeman of Cheyenne, Wyoming; children Brandon Lee (Marian) Drake of Greeley, Colorado, Briana (Robert Parnell) Drake of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Brett (Chelsea) Drake of Cheyenne, Wyoming; and five (5) grandchildren with whom she loved and cared for immensely, Camden Drake, Quade Drake, Ari Drake, Ava Drake, and Zofia Drake; Marilyn’s sister, Linda Mayer; brother Craig Goodchild.
A private memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family asks for you to plant a tree or bush in her memory.
Darrin R. Harris: 1964 – 2023
Darrin Harris was born March 3, 1964, and lived in Cheyenne, Wyoming, the majority of his life.
It is with deep sadness that the family of Darrin Harris announce his passing.
Darrin was gifted with a great sense of humor that was enjoyed by his family and friends. He enjoyed outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing. He was great with kids.
His faith was a true inspiration. Darrin had a close relationship with his mother, Charlene Randolph, and she is grateful for her memories and every moment she and Darrin shared.
He will be missed by all.
Carol Sue Hicks: 1933 – 2023
Carol Hicks, 89, recently of Cheyenne, passed at home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on August 11, 1933, in Beech Grove, Indiana to Dorothy & David Wickes.
Carol was a teacher, an artist, and a pastor for many years. She is survived by her daughter, Diana; two granddaughters; her great-grandson; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Hicks, Jr. and her son, David Hicks.
Services are being held at the Rugged Cross Chapel at the Cheyenne Memorial Gardens Cemetery on June 9th, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.
Barry Joe Hickman: 1970 – 2023
Barry Joe Hickman, 52, of Oxford, Iowa, passed away at UNMC on April 12, 2023 peacefully.
He was born on July 17, 1970 in Sheridan, Wyoming to Earl and Lois Hickman.
Barry worked in telecommunications and road construction. He liked to sing, go camping, fishing, and hunting. He really enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his parents, Earl and Lois Hickman; his wife, Sarah Hickman; daughters, Mia and Adele Hickman; and his sister, Cindy Youssef (Nash).
Barry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Helen and Gifford Smith, and Lola and John Hickman; brother, Rodney Hickman; aunts, Crystal Nelsen, Sharon Warner, Martha Heines, and Beth Banta; and uncles, John Smith, William Smith, Glen Hickman, and Arthur Hickman.
Barry was cremated and his urn will be placed at Pleasant Hill Cemetery at Hull Community Center.
Mildred A. Palmer: 1934 – 2023
Mildred Adelle Palmer, 88, of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away at Davis Hospice on May 19, 2023.
She was born on June 16, 1934, in Greeley, Colorado to Mayo and Syrena (Steele) Coon.
She grew up in Greeley, Colorado and married her high school sweetheart, Harry A. Palmer on June 6, 1954, in Greeley. Mildred retired from the state of Wyoming DFS, in Evanston, Wyoming.
Mildred is survived by her husband Harry; son Nick (Raenie) Palmer; daughter Cheri (Ron) Hartwig; grandson Joe (Delia) of Norfolk, Virginia; granddaughter Edith (JR) Irwin of Aberdeen, South Dakota; and eight great grandchildren.
Mildred is preceded in death by her parents; sisters Kathryn Grossnickle, Serena Grossnickle, Hazel Daum, Norma Gaer; and brother Mayo “Bud” Coon.
Cremation has occurred and services will be held at a later date.
John B. Riggin: 1944 – 2023
On the morning of May 20th, 2023, John B. Riggin of Cheyenne, passed away at the age of 78, after a long battle with congenital heart failure. John was born on December 6, 1944, in Alamosa, Colorado to Harriet and John Riggin.
After serving in the Navy, he moved to Cheyenne where he married his first wife. He welcomed her three children into his life and then soon had two children of their own. John was a hard-working truck driver for more than 40 years and finally retired in 2008.
John loved classic cars and upon retirement was able to restore and show a beautiful ’53 Ford pickup. He was well known for his sense of humor and his ability to make people laugh with his great storytelling.
John was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his twin sister Martha and big sister Sue; son Cory; daughter Kelley; stepchildren Clair, Kayla, and Chris; and his sweet love Anna.
Services will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 11:00 am at Cheyenne National Cemetery.
To order flowers, please visit www.theprairierose.net.
