Ian O. Anderson

ALBANY - Ian Owen Anderson, 42, of Albany, NY, was called to heaven on Friday, January 2, 2026, while surrounded by loved ones. Ian’s life was cut short by medical complications following an injury. 

Ian was predeceased by his grandparents, Charles and Mary Anderson and Ralph and Muriel Londrigan. He is survived by his parents, Christopher and Viki Anderson, of Queensbury, his brother Darrin, sister-in-law, Jacki, and nephew, Carter, of Niskayuna, and by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is also survived by his best friend, Kyle Ketcham, and his wife Jillian, as well as countless other friends who were like family. Ian was an honorary uncle to his friends’ children, which included his goddaughter, Theodosia. 

Anyone who had the good fortune to meet Ian will never forget him; not just because he had a voice as deeply resonant as James Earl Jones, but also because he spoke with care, kindness, and humor. Ian loved to share good food, good drinks, and good conversation with friends and family. He was his happiest watching movies and shows, playing complicated board games, talking Star Wars, sharing a craft beer, belting out karaoke, and squadding up in Rainbow Six Siege with his buddies.

A graduate of Queensbury High School’s class of 2001, Ian enrolled at SUNY Adirondack where he later earned his associate’s degree in Computer Science. He joined the Knights of Columbus, Council 194 after his high school graduation, and served as the vice president of QHS Dollars for Scholars program for a few years. During his time at SUNY Adirondack, Ian worked at Bay Optical and became an optician. With that experience, he was able to help his friend, Dr. Monica Redmond, open her optical office where he would work for a short time.

Ian went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and master’s degree in Public Administration while making lifelong friends at the University at Albany. He excelled in his academic pursuits while also making time for the other “features” of college life. During that time, he also worked for Senator Betty Little, Assemblyman Dan Stec, and Congressman John Sweeney. Upon graduation, he devoted his career to public service. He started by being hired as a director of research for the Project on Violent Conflict at the University at Albany’s Rockefeller College. He also proudly co-wrote the course curriculum for the History of the Incarnation of Homeland Security and he later taught courses relating to Homeland Security for the college. Throughout his career, Ian held numerous titles and made many advancements. Most recently, he served as the Manager of Policy & Research at the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and as an Intelligence Analyst with the New York State Police Counter Terrorism Center (CTC). He was highly respected in his field and was dedicated to his work keeping New Yorkers safe. 

Though Ian’s 42 years were far too few, they were marked by deep friendships and strong family connections. Ian will be remembered as someone who always showed up for the people he loved. His family and friends feel blessed to have known him and are devastated to realize that there is no one else like him. They would like to extend gratitude to the many medical professionals at Ellis Hospital who cared for him in his last days. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to The Ian Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund by following this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-ian-anderson-with-a-scholarship-fund . This fund will support students who, like Ian did, are transferring from a two-year college to a four-year university. Priority will be given to those who are studying homeland security or counterterrorism, reflecting Ian’s passions and the subjects he taught at UAlbany.

Calling hours will be Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4-7pm at Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Avenue, Albany. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Parish of Mater Christi, Hopewell St. & Hurst Ave, in Albany at 10:30am on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Ian’s friend, Fr. Stephen Yusko, will celebrate the mass. All who loved Ian are welcome to attend.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralhome.com.