Bruce Purdy Anderson passed away peacefully in Chatham, MA on June 6, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who lived a life filled with adventure and who wanted the best for everyone he encountered.

Born on July 22, 1934, he was the son of Edward F. Anderson and Marjory Irene Purdy. He attended Yale University and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania Dental School. Bruce was an Eagle Scout and he served as a dentist in the U.S. Army, earning the rank of Captain.

In addition to his 40 year professional career as a dentist in Farmington, CT, he was a pilot, a pilot instructor, a hot air balloon pilot, and an off-road racing driver. He played the French horn for the New Jersey All-State Orchestra, the Yale Marching and Concert Bands and the Chatham Band in Cape Cod, and he sang tenor for the Asylum Hill Oratorio Choir. He was a member of the Masons, President of the United Way of Farmington, President of the Red Cross of Farmington, and a member of the Farmington Exchange Club. An avid antique arms collector, he was a member of the Massachusetts Antique Arms Collectors, the NRA and the NMLRA.

His wife, Sally Middleton Anderson, was the great love of his life, and they spent over 40 magical years together, blending their families beautifully. They loved to travel together to their ranch in Salida, Colorado, and to Aruba as well as spending time at their home on Cape Cod.

In addition to Sally, Bruce is survived by his six children, Dan Pinto, Douglas Pinto, Judith Pinto, Suzanne Steinert, Roger Anderson, and Jeannie Reeth, and his 12 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his integrity, his pursuit of joy, and his generosity towards others.

A Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 59 Main St., Cheshire, CT. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery, located directly behind the church. Memorial contributions may be made in Bruce’s name to the Chatham Band, which he played in for many years.