Anderson was born in Upper Moonlight, New Zealand to a Swedish father and an Irish mother.

In 1927, he married Alma Menge, with whom he had three daughters: Jean, Patricia and Shelby.

During World War II, he served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers.

[3] Anderson served on the Anchorage City Council before being appointed in 1956 to complete the term of Mayor Ken Hinchey.

Anderson was elected the following year, but ill health forced him to resign early.