Donald G. "Bepop" Anderson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald G. Anderson, fondly known as “BePop”, who left us on Wednesday September 10, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on November 1, 1943, in Philadelphia, PA, to the late G. Phyllis and Henry Rae Anderson, he resided in Bensalem Twp from birth. After Donald and Barbara married and started their family, they resided in the Torresdale Manor section of Bensalem since 1965, a move which brought them many years of happiness. Donald fought a very long, 14 yr fight with a cancer that was in his bloodstream; Hemangiosarcoma, which only 1% of humans get and it was common to dogs.

Donald worked for 36 years as a lineman, troubleman and dispatcher at Philadelphia Electric Co (PECO), making lifelong friendships with co-workers, the Dominiks, Tochtermans and Besacks and sharing many family vacations to Disney along with mountain trips to their house in Pocono Pines PA. Since he retired at the young age of 54 he continued working for Sears for eight years. Don was always the go-to handyman for family, friends and neighbors, bringing joy and laughter to every project he undertook.

Donald was deeply committed to his community. He received Mayor DiGirolamo's Service Beyond Self award (Volunteer of the Year) in October 2013 for his dedication to Bensalem Twp. He was a lifetime member of the Cornwells Fire Company, Station #16, where he served as the 1st Assistant Chief and Treasurer for 30 years, and also was a lifetime member of Union Fire Company, Station #37, currently serving as Vice President, Treasurer and Chaplin. Donald didn’t let his unwavering commitment to volunteerism stop there. He currently served on the Bensalem Emergency Management Advisory Board, along with a group called CAP, Community Accountability Program, which helped first time offenders get on the right track. He belonged to the Veterans of Andalusia enjoying both bingo and cornhole, and the VFW Post 5644 of Snowshoe PA. For many years, he brought smiles to the faces of both young and old by portraying Santa Claus in his community, Torresdale Manor and Columbus Country Club and for Bensalem Twp children at the Township building for over 25 years. Donald was also a member of the Bristol Masonic Lodge #25, F&AM, celebrating 50 years in November of 2023.

A devoted member of The New Life Christian Church of Newtown, Donald served as a deacon and head usher for many years, dedicating his time to fostering a sense of community and faith. His love for the outdoors led him to the mountains of Snow Shoe, PA, where he enjoyed spending time with friends and family at the Bensalem Hunting and Fishing Club, a small organization started by 12 Bensalem men in 1955, one being his father, Henry, where they purchased 434 acres in 1962 to hunt and fish and enjoy outdoor life. Donald served as treasurer for the club.

Family was everything to Donald. He cherished Sunday nights spent bowling and sharing meals at the Blue Hill Diner in the early 70’s. He enjoyed many years at his mountain house in the Poconos, along with his beloved wife of 63 years and 2 days, Barbara A. (Smith), and their children: Margie Knowles (Bill), Phyllis Anderson, and Art Anderson (Michelle). His love extended to his grandchildren—Billy (Katie), Ryan, Jordan, Jenna, and Bobby—and great-grandchildren Ayva, Kevin, and Aubrey. And let’s not forget Deuce, his faithful companion who was by his side through it all. He will also be deeply missed by his brothers, Rae H. Anderson (Terri) and Kenneth J. Anderson (the late Betsy) and many loving extended family members and friends.

Donald will be remembered not just for the roles he fulfilled, but for the love he shared with everyone around him. He leaves behind his cherished family, his buddy Deuce, and a community that feels his loss deeply.

All who knew him are invited to remember Donald aka BePop, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and community spirit. He will be missed more than words can say.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing Thursday September 18, 2025 from 6 to 8 PM at the Tomlinson Funeral Home, 2207 Bristol Pike, Bensalem, PA 19020, and again Friday September 19, 2025 from 9 to 10 AM at the New Life Christian Church of Newtown, 4 Freedom Dr, Newtown, PA 18940, followed by his service at 10 AM. Interment Sunset Memorial Park. www.tomlinsonfh.com