Richard Allison Anderson

Richard Allison Anderson, age 80, passed away on November 14, 2023 in Zionsville, Indiana.  He was born in Connersville, Indiana.   He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Kathleen (Wright) Anderson, His three daughters Julia Anderson Moon, Melissa Anderson Best (Rob Best), Amy Anderson as well as his 7 grandchildren, Allison Anderson, James Moon, Alexander Moon, Josephine Moon, Annabelle Moon, William Best and Michael Best.; Sister in Law Jackie Wright (Lloyd Orr) and nephews Tom Hall (Laura) and Jim Hall (Jason).  He is preceded in death by his father and mother Victor A Anderson and Dale Anderson, brother in law Lloyd Orr and Nephew Steve Hall, and Uncle and Aunt Joe and Karen Humerickhouse.

Ric graduated from Howe High School 1961 in Indianapolis Indiana. Earned his Eagle Scout and later graduated from Indiana University with a degree in business.    He was a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and would later propose to his bride at the IU Gamma Phi Beta Christmas formal in 1965.

Ric served in the United States Airforce Reserve from 1965 to 1971.    Ric worked nights at Allison Transmission in Indianapolis while Kathie completed her Master’s degree at Indiana.  Upon graduation, Ric had a successful business career;  most notably with Olympus America where he introduced a then novel diagnostic tool known as the colonoscopy to dozens of Indiana surgeons for the early detection of colorectal cancers and other diseases of the digestive system.  His professional efforts have had a profound effect on the thousands of Hoosiers whose lives are impacted by colon cancer every year.

Ric was passionate about scouting and served many years as a scout leader in Indianapolis.   As a true Eagle Scout, Ric was always trustworthy, loyal, helpful, cheerful and brave.  An avid outdoorsman and athlete Ric enjoyed camping, skiing and was known to be a formidable tennis player.   Ric was and continued to be an original Colts season ticket holder since the inaugural season in Indianapolis.   In 1978 Ric and Kathie moved to Zionsville.    He was a member of the Zionsville Rotary Club.   A 45 year resident of Zionsville, Ric always supported the Zionsville Eagles and he could often be seen supporting the local high school football team with his Zionsville friends.   He made every effort to cheer on and support his grandchildren as they participated in community athletics and arts.   He loved the Colts, Pacers and mostly his Indiana Hoosiers.   

Ric was a Parishioner at St Frances in the fields Episcopal Church in Zionsville where his contributions and friendships were immeasurable.    He was active in the congregation and participated in many retreats and fundraisers, including a mission trip to Appalachia with his granddaughter.

Ric was beloved by all who knew him.    He had a beautiful genuine smile and was generous with his time and his blessings.  He never met a stranger and was known for his wit and never ending sense of humor.   His grandchildren called him Papa; He was loved by all in both Indiana and Florida and will be missed by many.  

The family wishes to thank all of our dear friends for their love, kindness, and support during this difficult time.

Memorial service will be at Saint Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church, Zionsville, Indiana at 2:30 p.m. on December 9th, 2023.  A reception will follow at the church.