Retired California SLD/ASLD Michael Anderson passes away

Michael Anderson, 78, a retired California state legislative director and longtime assistant state legislative director from Local 1570 (Roseville, Calif.), passed away Aug. 8, 2024.

Brother Anderson, a second-generation railroader, began his rail career as a switchman at Southern Pacific’s Roseville Yard in June 1964 and initially was a member of the Switchmen’s Union of North America (SUNA), which merged into the United Transportation Union in 1969.

Brother Anderson started as a legislative rep for his SUNA local, then for his UTU/SMART-TD Local 1570. He was assistant state legislative director for 27 years beginning in 1991 before serving as SLD for a few months in 2019/2020.

He also served on the TD’s Executive Board from 2008 to the group’s dissolution in 2019 at the Second SMART Transportation Division Convention.

“Mike was always helpful and always had a kind greeting for everybody,” wrote colleague Bruce Holder, who worked with Anderson on safety matters. “In those old SP days, the railroad had an injury report called the 2611. Mike came up with an unsafe condition report he labeled the 2610. His point was that if the railroad didn’t address the 2610 report, a 2611 injury report would soon follow.

“You were one of a kind Michael. And one of the best. We owe you for leading the way for many years.”

The SMART Transportation Division extends its condolences to Brother Anderson’s family, friends and his brothers and sisters at Local 1570.