Obituary of Michael Anderegg

Michael Wayne Anderegg, the son of R. Harlan and Dorothy (Wittrock) Anderegg-Thomas, was born on November 3, 1949 in Hartley, IA. He enjoyed growing up on farms in the Hartley area with his younger sister, Patricia. As a child his mother a former teacher, instilled a passion for reading in Michael and a love of learning, which continued throughout his life. He graduated from Hartley High School where he was active on the debate, declam and drama teams. After graduation in 1967 Michael received an appointment to and attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. He returned to the Midwest to attend college and spent a memorable summer in the mountains of Calorodo in 1969. He developed an interest in politics, which became life long. In 1970 he married Sheryl Farrand and in 1971 became the proud father of the joy of his life, a son, Eli Nathaniel Anderegg. One of his greatest pleasures was reading to Eli and teaching him even while he studied in the evenings and making sure Eli had the best learning toys possible. He made certain to pass along his love of reading to his son. He attended Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, IA, where he was again active in the debate club. Michael graduated with honors, in 1974 from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA with a degree in Political science. He attended the University of Kansas Law School, Lawrence, KS from 1974-1977. He relocated to San Diego, CA in the late 70’s where he fondly became attached to the southern California climate and living near the beach. He worked for National Pen and later Airborne Express in San Diego as international shipment coordinator. He was the computer “wiz” to all who knew him. Michael enjoyed summer visits to the Midwest to see his son, mother, family and friends. After a bout with ill health he spent many days at the beach and ocean; he loved reading and rejuvenating. In 2006 he began work with Best Buy in consumer assistance where he was highly regarded for his expertise in finding solutions. He continued his interest in politics and enjoyed expressing opinions with others and the daily reading with his love of books. Michael passed away on June 30, 2007 after his heroic struggle with persisting health issues. He is survived by his son, Eli, of Topeka, KS; mother, Dorothy Thomas of Hartley, IA; sister, Patricia Pfeiffer and her husband, Michael; niece, Christina Drezelo and her husband, David, all of Bellevue, NE; nephew, Trevor Pfeiffer and his wife Brandi, of Omaha, NE; former wife and special friend, Sheryl Farrand, of Topeka, KS; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father; his stepfather, Levoy Thomas, and his beloved grandparents Ed and Annetta Wittrock.