Sun Mountain Lumber, Logging and Sun Up Fitness and Ventures are true family-owned and family operated businesses in every sense. Sherm Anderson began his career in the wood products industry as a very young man, working alongside his dad, until 1976 when Sherm broke away and formed his own business, Sun Mountain Logging. His small company grew steadily until it is now one of the largest logging operations in the state of Montana.
When the sawmill in Deer Lodge (prior owner Louisiana-Pacific) came up for sale, Sherm and his wife Bonnie decided to launch a new phase in their lives. They purchased the plant in 2004 and have since continued the legacy of producing a high-quality product.
Family members who are active in the company are numerous: two sons who run the logging and accompanying shop operation, a daughter-in-law who works in the logging company office and the other daughter-in-law who manages all of the parts supply for the lumber company. A daughter who assists in the family-owned fitness center, Sun-Up Fitness. A son-in-law who works as the firm’s accountant/controller. One grandson, a graduate of Montana Tech, works full time for Sun Mountain Logging operating various pieces of equipment. And another grandson, after graduating from college with an economics degree from Montana State University, is involved in operation of the lumber mill as the IT Director. Five younger grandchildren provide much joy in Sherm and Bonnie’s lives.
The small community of Deer Lodge has long been dependent on the sawmill and logging operations as a major employer in the area and Sherm and Bonnie are dedicated to continuing that legacy. They also contribute countless amounts of time, energy and resources in serving the community. They are very active in their church and politics; they serve on hospital and library foundations, bank and museum boards, and in many other organizations outside the community.
In the following picture from left to right: Avery(Granddaughter), Matthew(Grandson), Carson(Grandson), Bonnie, Presli(Granddaughter), Sherm, Marion(Granddaughter), Christopher(Grandson), and Hayden(Grandson).
