Wilma L. Anderson

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Wilma Lenora Anderson, much loved sister, aunt and friend, on April 1, 2026, in Platteville, Wisconsin. Wilma was born on January 5, 1931, the first child of Gladys Lenora (Klosterman) and William Henry Anderson, at the Wilson Cunningham Hospital in Platteville.

Wilma was one smart, classy, well-traveled, cat-loving lady.  Wilma’s family was honored to surround her with much love during her last days and up to her passing.  Wilma’s education included a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952 from State Teachers College, Platteville, Wisconsin, majoring in chemistry with minors in math and French. Wilma spent her entire professional career with Mallinckrodt Pharmaceutical. She started with them in St. Louis in 1953 and in 1974 accepted a transfer to their new plant in Raleigh, North Carolina. This transfer prompted her to get her driver’s license, her first car – a Dodge Swinger, and purchase her first, and only, house. Wilma was asked to manage the quality control laboratory for the manufacture of contrast media. Wilma retired from Mallinckrodt in the mid-80s after many years of dedicated service and breaking ground for other women in her industry.

Throughout her life Wilma was a skilled seamstress and in retirement made many beautiful quilts and wall hangings on her collection of sewing and quilting machines. Wilma built enduring friendships with many special friends and neighbors in Raleigh. She loved the beautiful blooms of the trees, shrubs, and flowers of the area and the many birds and deer that visited her yard. For many years, she brought her mother back to Raleigh after Christmas at home in Wisconsin and her mother would stay until spring. They made beautiful quilts and fiber arts together, traveled near and far, and enjoyed each other’s company.  While Wilma didn’t marry, she had special long-term relationships across her life who brought love and joy to her heart.

Wilma is survived by her brother, Marshall Anderson, brother-in-law, Leroy Messling, sisters-in-law, Patricia Anderson and Judy Crissman and many nieces and nephews and their families.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters Loa Nelson, Marlene Messling, and Moya Thomas, her brothers Carroll, Elwood, and Laurel Anderson, sister-in-law Bernetta Anderson, brother-in-law Larry Nelson, and special brother-in-law Robert (Bob) Thomas.

Wilma moved back to Platteville in 2025 to be near her Anderson family. The family thanks her special Raleigh friends and neighbors and sister-in-law Judy Crissman Thomas, who all looked out for and cared for Wilma. Her family also thanks the wonderful staff at Sienna Crest Assisted Living for their loving care and support of Wilma and for making her feel at home this past year. Even though Agrace Hospice was only a part of Wilma’s world for a few weeks, we also thank them for their loving care.

 Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory in Platteville, with visitation starting at 9:30 am until the time of the service.  Pastor Mary Ann Floerke will officiate. Private family burial will take place at County Line Cemetery, Waldwick, Wisconsin.  Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.