IRA GENE ANDERS

IRA GENE ANDERS Ira Anders passed away at home, surround by his loving family, at the age of 82 in Independence, Missouri, on February 15, 2025. Born on April 15, 1942, in Goessel, Kansas, to John and Elsie (Vogts) Anders, he lived a life filled with passion, commitment, and a deep love for his family and community. Ira is survived by his beloved wife, Nina (Clemensen) Anders, with whom he shared over 61 years of marriage, and they often joked about growing up together. Ira was preceded in death by his parents John and Elsie, siblings Helen Hobbs and Wayne Anders, and mother and father-in-law Eddy and Dua Clemensen. Ira was extremely proud of his children, Jon (wife Cindy) Anders of Wellington, CO, and Amy Anders of Middletown, OH. He took great joy in visiting his children while they attended various schools across the country, providing support and encouragement throughout their lives. A graduate of Emporia State University, Ira devoted more than 28 years to the Independence School District as an elementary school teacher, where he was deeply admired. His service extended beyond the classroom as he served as President of the Independence National Education Association and, after retiring from teaching, was elected to the Independence School Board. Ira was also a State Representative for the 51st and 21st Districts of Missouri and was involved with numerous city and state committees. As a staunch Democrat, Ira was known for his ability to engage in meaningful and respectful discussions with colleagues from all political backgrounds. Ira also enjoyed many hobbies. He spent summers working on his rental houses, sailing, and biking. In the winter on family vacations, you could find him out on the ski slopes of New Mexico and Colorado. Ira would go on long walks with his corgi, Finley, around his local city park, which he loved and worked hard to maintain. He traveled to Iceland multiple times to visit Nina's extended family, and loved exploring the beauty of the Flint Hills in Kansas, which he always described as breathtaking. Ira is survived by multiple nieces and nephews, as well as one sister, Irene (husband Bill) VanWey, with whom he shared many cherished childhood memories, like being chased around the farm house to help with dishes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Boys and Girls Club, an organization Ira strongly supported. A visitation will be held on February 22, 2025 at Newcomer's Noland Road Chapel from 2-4 p.m.. His legacy of service, love, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be dearly missed but, in our hearts, forever.