Orville Robert Anderson was born on January 25, 1955, in Havre, Montana, to Orville and Pearl (LaTray) Anderson. In 1957, he moved with his family to Anchorage, Alaska, while it was still a territory, where he lived until 1962. During that time, he witnessed Alaska become a state in 1959 and was famously waved at by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, “Ike, Ike!” he had exclaimed while waiving back. He later moved to Anaconda, Montana. He spent most of his childhood riding his bike and fishing, his teen years exploring on his Honda CT90, then graduated from Anaconda High School in 1973.
In 1974, Orville worked for the Anaconda Copper Company in the Smelter for six months, primarily in the reverbs and across the copper floor on the converter side before deciding to pursue further education. He balanced work and schooling, holding various jobs at Galen and the Montana State Hospital while attending Montana State University–Bozeman, the University of Montana, Montana Tech, and Northern Montana College. He earned a degree in Electrical Technology from Montana Tech in 1983, though he ultimately chose a different career path.
In 1978 Orville met the love of his life, and most thoughtful person, Celia (Peterson), who he then married on September 6th of 1983 after welcoming their first son in January of 1983. Orville returned to school, after having his third child, and completed his registered nursing degree at Northern Montana College, graduating as Salutatorian in 1992. That same year, he earned his ANCC Certification in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, which he maintained throughout his career. Orville worked as a Registered Nurse at St. James Hospital, Galen, and ultimately the Montana State Hospital, where he served until his retirement in 2013.
A proud member of the Little Shell Tribe, Orville greatly enjoyed discussing family history, tribal history, and general history with anyone willing to engage. He was the best storyteller with a remarkable memory. His many hobbies included watching his children at various events, traveling to Missoula to visit his grandchildren, skiing, riding motorcycles, photography, tying flies, fishing, leatherwork, hunting, yardwork (loved Caras Nursery in Missoula and took pride in his garden), walking his dogs, and building model kits. His modeling projects included the complete Aurora monster collection, the Titanic, as well as cars and planes. He was incredibly thankful for his health and his body’s fight, despite his diagnosis. He was strong, optimistic, determined, loyal, and the most loving husband, father, and “Papa” … thankful for his time on this Earth.
“I think, therefore I am. “-Descartes.
On December 26, 2025, Orville passed surrounded by his family. He is at peace after a courageous five-year battle with cancer. The family and Orville would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his good friend, Maynard Gwin, Sr. (who called or visited daily), Dr. Hueffle and the Oncology staff at Anaconda Community Hospital, as well as Pintler Hospice, for the care and comfort provided to Orville at the end of his life.
Orville is survived by his wife of 42 years, Celia Anderson; his son, Nicholas Anderson; his daughters, Karla Anderson and Dana (Alex) Basile; his grandchildren, Sadie, Anders, and soon 3rd baby Basile; his dogs, Bailey, Panda, and Missy; and several beloved extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Pearl Anderson; his son, Trevor Anderson (the first soul he hoped to be greeted by), and many other loved family members and lifelong friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of one’s choice.
Per Orville’s request, no public service will be held. A private burial will take place at a later date.
Please visit below to share a memory of Rob or offer the family a condolence.
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Bernie Connor says
I’m so sorry for your loss. He was a special man and will be missed but not forgotten.
Love
Bernie
Mark Proxell says
Our condolences to the family for your loss. Orville was a very bright and good guy to work with at MSH. RIP.
Mark and Brenda Proxell
MaryPat Clark says
I am so very saddened to hear this news. I was unaware of his illness, wish I would have known😞. Orville was a great psych nurse and a dependable, intelligent anchor of a chaotic Forensic unit night shift. I enjoyed conversations with him about his many interests. Heartfelt sympathy to Ceil and the kids. You may rest now, Orville. Prayers for peace and acceptance for all who loved him.❤️🙏❤️
Michelle Mazzola says
I’m so sorry for your loss .
Ikie Thompson says
I am so sorry, I worked with Orv and talked with him when we would pass each other while walking. My prayers go out to his Family. He put up a good fight!
Ron and Cindy Sanders says
Rest in Peace Orville. You fought a good fight. You will be missed. So sorry, we did make it to become old men. Condolences to your family. Take care Celia, you are in our thoughts.
Mike & Connie Dotson says
Celia and Family, we are so sorry to hear of Orville’s passing. Mike really enjoyed his years of being at MSH with him. Loved visiting with him when we would see him. Was always sure to say hi and ask how things where going. He was just an all around nice guy. Sending prayers of peace . May he rest in the loving arms of the Lord.
Dixie Johnson says
Karla and Celia know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know Tony always held Orville in high regard and loved to get see him whenever he came home! He so appreciated his story telling! May God’s peace come to you and may Orville’s memory always be a blessing. Dixie and Bill
Lea Hutzenbiler says
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. I was a classmate of Orville’s. What an amazing life he had.
Ken & Rhonda Klima says
Our sincere condolences on your loss. Orville will be remembered as a very kind and gentle soul that always showed complete respect to all. May your cherished memories help ease your pain and sorrow and give you peace and strength. Heartfelt thoughts and prayers said for Ceil and all of Orvilles loved ones 🙏🙏🙏
Charlie Ewan says
I’m so sorry to hear of Orville’s passing. We had some good times and great conversations over beers and while working together. He was a remarkable person. My deepest sympathies to Ceil and the kids. You are all in my heart, thoughts and prayers. God bless you Ceil, I have the utmost respect for your strength and perseverance.
Ken Linzey says
My condolences to Orville’s family.. I always liked Orville and spent time hanging out occasionally In Junior high school. I remember riding out to Georgetown on the back of his Honda 90 and party at the lake. Rest in peace Orville..
Gloria and Ray Nelson says
May Orville Rest in Peace. Our Sympathy to Ceil and all Orville’s Family.
Debra Douglas says
I am saddened to hear about Orville’s passing. I was his boss many years ago at the Anaconda Indian Alliance. He then became my boss years later when we worked at the Montana State Hospital. He was such a kind person, and it was a pleasure knowing him. My condolences to Ceil and family.
Bob and Shelly Smith says
Celia and family. Bob and I are so sorry for your loss. If there’s anything we can do. I loved Orville although he was a brat at times but he was a good man. Love ya