Darwin Richard Andersen

Darwin Richard Andersen was born on May 20, 1936, one of eight children born to Harold and Alta (Lee) Andersen in rural Shelby County, Iowa. In 1944, his parent relocated to Cuppy’s Grove where he attended country school until he was able to begin at Harlan High School, where he graduated with the class of 1954. He then spent time living with his aunts and uncles and several friends, where he would help with farm chores. He then started installing water pipelines with his brother, Don. 

 Darwin was convinced by his brother, Don- who was an avid polka dancer, to attend a school dance where he saw a young gal but didn’t know who she was. He made a point to find out who she was and managed to get to know her. On October 12, 1956, he married that young gal, Karen Cade at Altamont Baptist Church in Walnut, Iowa. The couple was blessed with three children: Teresa Jean, Kenneth Lee and Linda Renee. 

On February 1, 1957, Darwin enrolled in universal trade school in Omaha, Nebraska where he graduated with a degree in vehicle mechanics. Among his completion, he was hired by Stan Olsen, who owned a garage in Walnut and Harlan. Darwin worked at that garage in Harlan for many years under several different employers. Later in life, he started working at Coast to Coast in Harlan and retired in July of 1998. Darwin enjoyed keeping busy with handywork, on the side, during his working years. He built a large room and a garage for their home renovations. Darwin also took a locksmith course and enjoyed that as much as any other work he had done. Darwin was proud that he was able to scoop the snow and mow the lawn well into his 80’s. As busy as he was, he always made time for family and cherished the memories they gave him. 

Dick passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024, at Elm Crest Senior Living in Harlan at the age of 87 years, 10 months and 11 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Kenneth Andersen; and siblings: Donald, Norma Andersen, Marvel Gries, Ardith Bivens and Lois Gordon. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Karen Andersen of Harlan; two daughters: Teresa (Randy) Schnack of Oakland and Linda (Dave) Petersen of Harlan; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two siblings: Wayne Andersen of Perry and Lavonne Fox of Harlan; and many other relatives and friends. 

Private services will be held with the family.