Leslie V. Anderson

Leslie V. Anderson left this life on February 20, 2011, to go safely home with the Lord. 'Les' was born May 17, 1925 in Wichita, Kansas to Roy O. Anderson and Laura Hill Anderson. When WW II broke out, Les was drafted into the army, and served in the European theater, was captured by the German army and served 8 months in Stalag 17a, the largest German POW camp located in Munich. Before leaving home to serve in the army, Les married Frances Schuller on March 13, 1944. After discharge, Les went to telegrapher school in Kansas City, and after being qualified, became an apprentice on the Santa Fe railroad, and was employed for 38 years at locations throughout the lower Arkansas valley.
During this time, Les became an involved member of the La Junta Elks lodge, 701, and was exalted ruler both in 1981-82 and 1987-88, serving two terms.
To avoid boredom after retiring from the Santa Fe railroad, Les and his long-time partner and 'brother', Larry Tucker purchased the Copper Kitchen cafe, turning it into local legend. It was a perfect mix for Les's love of people, and hobby of politics and was only happy when stirring up '$@#%! democrats'! Even after selling his half of partnership to Adam and Julie Thomson, you would find Les at the cash register 6 days a week until illness prevented.
Les is survived by first wife, Frances, and children Buster (Jackie) of Raton, NM, David (Cheryl) of Swink, Carl of La Junta, Leroy(Cindy) of Clovis, NM. and daughter Lynette Reeves(Terry) of La Junta. During their marriage, Les also had a few 'foster' children he housed and loved like his own. He and second wife Suzanne Inskeep were married Oct. 16, 1982 and have made their home in La Junta for 28 years, raising step-daughter Xaimina, and making home for niece Kelly Clause, and Suzanne's grandmother, Margrete West for a time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Helen Barber (Lynne), and Mary King(Bud), two brothers Lloyd Gail, and Murlvin Eugene.
He is survived by both Frances, Suzanne, and all of his children, 10 grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchilden.
A Memorial service will be Wednesday, February 23, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene with Wayne Cathey of the First Southern Baptist Church officiating.
Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Arkansas Valley Hospice Assoc., P.O. Box 408, La Junta, CO, 81050 direct or through the funeral home.