Margaret Ann Anderson graduated from Cathedral High School (now St. Mary’s Elementary School). She married John L. Anderson and together they had six children. Through commitment they were able to provide a Catholic education for each child, and all six at tended St. Patrick’s School and graduated from Pius X High School.
Their oldest child, Michael, graduated from Pius X High School in 1960. He later died in a car accident in 1971 leaving behind two children, Michael (deceased 1999) and Stephanie. He is remembered as a generous, light-hearted spirit whose family and faith remained important to him throughout his life. Michael served as a class officer and was a multi-sport participant in high school. Outside of school, he nurtured his passion for fixing up and racing cars.
John passed away in 1980, just three months after their youngest daughter graduated from Pius X. After John’s death, Margaret continued their commitment to Catholic education by secretly deciding to establish a Pius X scholarship in Michael’s name and memory. Even after suffering a series of debilitating strokes, Margaret continued to set aside money for Michael’s scholarship. She felt very strongly that any child who wanted to attend Catholic school should be given the opportunity.
Without the knowledge of her other children, Margaret established the Michael Anderson Scholarship in 1996. Her intent was not only to recognize the achievements of her late son, but also to reaffirm her commitment to Catholic education. Only after she had saved enough money and made all the arrangements to establish this scholarship, did she share the news with her five remaining children.
Margaret passed away in February 1999. Her surviving children include Dr. Mary Anderson-Case (’67), Dr. Tim Anderson (’69), Pat Anderson (’74), Shannon Anderson, JD (’78) and Kelly Anderson-Morehouse (’80).