Robert “Popeye” Anderson, Truck driver, recounts life on the road

[Staff]

Robert “Popeye” Anderson has seen many changes in the trucking industry over the years.

“Used to, you had to know your truck inside out,” Anderson said of his early years driving.

“If you broke down, you had to fix it yourself.”

And in his 42 years of driving a truck, Anderson said he has had to fix plenty.

Anderson, 64, has spent the past 15 years driving for Sapulpa-based John Christner Trucking, and he was recently awarded –– along with driver William Kemp –– for driving two million miles accident-free.

“It’s difficult to go accident-free for that long a time,” Anderson said.

“It’s the pride Popeye has (for his job), and it shows in how he includes the extras when doing his job, making it look seamless with no wrinkles,” said freight planner and driver manager Ron Higgins.

“He would be the one that helps the driver that is broke down along side the road, offering assistance or giving food and blankets to someone who would be stranded in the snow, then walk away expecting nothing in return, but this is normal for him.

“Popeye will accept the challenge. Without asking him you know it would be completed with a special touch to details. That’s the dependability and his character,” Higgins said.

Anderson said he attributes his accomplishment to staying aware of his surroundings on the road and knowing when to take a break.

“In this business, you pace yourself,” Anderson said.

Source: Sapulpa Daily Herald (more)