Tamara Louise (Winter) Anderson

Tamara Louise Anderson (née Winter), age 67, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in Los Alamitos, California. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend known for her snowman collection, giving heart, and deep devotion to family — both blood-related and chosen.

Tamara was born on August 27, 1958, in Parkston, South Dakota, to Melvin and Wanda Winter. She later grew up in Torrance, California, where she was known for being tough, competitive, and someone you definitely wanted on your softball team. That determination and work ethic would stay with her for the rest of her life. She attended South Torrance High School and went on to work as a Medical Assistant for more than 40 years. Throughout her career, she faithfully supported medical staff while ensuring her patients always received the care, attention, and compassion they needed.

She married Randal Anderson on January 14, 1978, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together they built a life in Lakewood, California centered on family and a commitment to always providing for those they loved. She was the loving mother of Kendra Hart (John) and Kristopher Anderson (Jenna). She was the proud grandmother of Hayden Thomas.

She loved family traditions, holidays (especially Christmas), and the infamous nut pudding (with no nuts). Tamara will be remembered for her generosity and selflessness. She had a special gift for making people feel welcome, cared for, and valued. Whether it was making sure someone had a meal, checking in with a phone call, or quietly putting others’ needs before her own, Tamara showed love through action. She found joy in simple moments like decorating for Christmas, adding to her snowman collection, or gathering her family together making everyone feel at home.

Tamara lived a life defined by loyalty, perseverance, and love. For more than four decades in the medical field, she showed up every day ready to serve others, not for recognition, but because she believed people deserved care and dignity. At home, she created a place where family members and friends always knew they belonged, were safe, and loved.

More than anything, Tamara believed in showing up for people. The values she lived by, hard work, generosity, and a deep devotion to family, continue through her children, her grandson, and the many people who were blessed to call her family or friend. The measure of her life is seen in the love she gave and the love that continues because of her.

She is survived by her husband, Randal; her children, Kendra (John) and Kristopher (Jenna); her grandson, Hayden; her sister, Cheryl; her brother, Stuart; as well as many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wanda and Melvin Winter; her brothers, Glynn and Kerry; and her sister, Nicky.

The family would like to thank the caregivers, hospital staff, family, and friends who have supported Tammy and her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Maria Goretti Catholic School. Her love continues to guide us, and her legacy lives on in the lives she touched. May her legacy live on in your love.

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