<!-- FH = BLOUNT & CURRY FUNERAL HOME - CARROLLWOO FHADDR = 3207 W. BEARSS AVE FHCITY = CARROLLWOOD FHSTATE = FL FHZIP = 33618 FHPHONE = 813-968-2231 --><!-- DisplayFullObituaryText -->ANDERSON, Michael M. age 61, of Tampa, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 18, 2014, surrounded by his wife Gabrielle Anderson, daughter Erin DeLong, son-in-law Jared DeLong and his sister Mitzi Anderson. His parents, Mervin and Jackie (Burnside) Anderson predeceased him. Mike, a fifth-generation Floridian, was born on Oct. 21, 1952, and grew up in Lutz. He graduated from Chamberlain High School, and earned his bachelors degree in elementary education from the University of South Florida. Mike taught elementary school at McDonald Elementary School in Seffner, for 28 years until he retired. There, he shared with his students his humor, love of nature, and storytelling. Mike enjoyed the outdoors and was happiest when he was surfing, canoeing, fishing and camping. At home he loved to play guitar and write original songs, obtaining copyrights on many. He was a very artistic person who painted and created unique works of art. He was a great cook and gardener. He loved it when he was able to use fresh herbs and vegetables from his garden when preparing a meal. Mike always said he was very thankful to have friends who are family and family who are friends. To celebrate Mikes wonderful life, a visitation will be held Friday, Oct. 24, from 5-8 pm, at theBlount & Curry Funeral Home at 3207 W. Bearss Avenue. In lieu of flowers, Mikes family asks you to donate to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network to advance research for a cure at pancan.org, or to an organization that supports nature conservation such as springseternalproject.org. Mike Anderson was and always will be a great man, husband, father, brother and friend. Condolences may be shared with Mikes family by visiting www.blountcurrycarrollwood.com. All arrangements are under the direction of Blount & Curry Funeral Home Carrollwood Chapel.