Craig Charles Anderson

Craig Charles Anderson of Burns, WY passed away unexpectedly on August 26, 2025, at the age of 71. He was born on January 4, 1954, in Kimball, NE to Lawrence Charles Anderson and Joanne (Thompson) Anderson. Craig graduated from Burns High School in 1972 as a decorated athlete, winning two state championships in basketball (1971, 1972). He continued his education and athletic career at the University of Wyoming, where he graduated in 1977. Craig married Gail Marie Leininger in 1978.

He embarked on a career as an educator and a coach that spanned over 40 years, with stops in Farson, WY, Lusk, WY, Burns, WY, Bowling Green, KY, Gillette, WY, and Cheyenne, WY. His passion for teaching and coaching impacted countless peers, students, and athletes. In 1990 and 1991, he was Head Coach for the Lusk Girls Basketball Team, achieving back-to-back undefeated seasons capped with state championships. In 2004, he was Assistant Coach for the state champion and hall of fame Warren Central High School Boys Basketball Team, who also ended their season nationally ranked.

He was a man of immense faith in Jesus and would often be found studying his bible and journaling his thoughts. He loved sharing his faith and wisdom with family and friends and was always quick to send an encouraging word. Craig loved his family. He enjoyed family trips to the beach for quality time and to the mountains for hiking and skiing. He grew up farming with his father and brother (Mark), and loved working on the farm with his dad, brother, nephew (Brett), and son (Ryan). He also delighted in watching and cheering on his four grandsons.

Craig is survived by his wife Gail; sons Ryan Charles (Alli) Anderson of Cheyenne, WY and Jeremy Craig (Rachel) Anderson of Omaha, NE; brother Mark (Judy) Anderson of Burns, WY; sister Sharon Anderson of Fort Collins, CO; grandsons Beckham, Crew, Luca, and Lawson; and numerous nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Joanne.

A memorial service will be held at Cheyenne Hills Church in Cheyenne, WY on Saturday, September 6th at 1:00pm MDT, with burial and reception to follow. Craig is dearly loved and remembered by his family and friends and will be deeply missed. May he rest in eternal peace with Jesus.