Richard James Andersen

Our loving father was reunited with his wife Patt when he entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in his sleep on Tuesday, March 29, 2022.

We go through life making all kinds of decisions. Some good, some bad. One of the best was when Richard decided to respond to an altar call at a Billy Graham event where he gave his life to Jesus. That event would come to shape the lives of his entire family and their relationship with Jesus. We will miss your smile. We will miss your sweetness. We will miss the look on your face when someone brings you ice cream. You taught us to never miss the opportunity to pray and see someone for who they are right in front of us. You taught us so much of what it is to love and be kind.

Richard was born in Racine, WI, to Nels and Eva Andersen. He grew up in Albert Lea, MN, joined the Navy, and met his wife Patt while stationed in Florida. They were married in 1957, and together they moved to Minneapolis, where he ran his company, Anco Construction, designing and building several houses and commercial properties throughout the Twin Cities. He served on the city council of the city of Little Canada, and faithfully ministered to the congregation at North Heights Lutheran Church in the Altar Ministry and Prayer Ministry.

Richard will always be loved by his children and grandchildren, Marcee and Benjamin; Jill, Paul, Laura and Peter; Daniel, Luci, Boen and Abbi; David, Annell, Rachel, Kayla and Jackson.

We will never forget his love for hot chocolate, chocolate shakes, ginger snaps, NASCAR, and motorhomes. You’re a jewel. Yes, yes, yes!!!

A private ceremony will be held at Fort Snelling at a later date.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of the Veterans Home of Minneapolis for their extraordinary care and support of Richard.