John Richard "Dick" Anderson

1929 - 2017

John Richard "Dick" Anderson 1929—2017
John Richard "Dick" Anderson, 87, devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend passed away February 17, 2017, following a long illness. He was born July 22, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois to John Martin and Ellen Marie (Siivonen) Anderson. Dick graduated from Rockford East High School in 1947. He married, Evelyn Marie Seaver, of Sharon, Wisconsin on April 10, 1954. Dick received his B.S. in Education from Northern Illinois University (NIU) in 1966, and his M.S. in Education from NIU in 1972, with a major in Educational Administration. Dick enjoyed a 36 year career as an educator and guidance counselor working for Rockford Public Schools (Wilson and West Middle Schools), and 25 years as an instructor for the Carpenter's Apprentice Program at Rock Valley College. Raised in Rockford, Dick was a first generation American, Korean War Veteran, Boy Scout leader, and dedicated educator, among many professional and personal achievements. First in his family to go to college, he went on to get his Master's degree and devoted his life to supporting others on their paths to learning. Dick was a master carpenter, yet another illustration of his infallible work ethic and curious nature. In his free time, he could be found with his wife, Evie in northern Wisconsin whipping through historical fiction, golfing, fishing, and both enjoying and advocating for the preservation of Lost Lake in Sayner, Wisconsin. On a humorous note, Dick was known for his zealous pursuit of a perfect yard which was admired by many friends and neighbors. An expert ballroom dancer, whenever the Glenn Miller Band came on he could be found leading his wife across the floor. His boisterous laugh will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched. Dick is survived by his daughters, Kathy (Dan) Weiss of Milwaukee, WI and Sue (Kevin) Merchen of Rockford, IL; granddaughters, Elizabeth Weiss of Chicago, IL, and Sarah Weiss of Minneapolis, MN; sister-in-law, Peg Snudden of Beaver Dam, WI; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, godsons; and many friends across the country. Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Evelyn. Special thanks to all his dear friends and neighbors over the years. We are especially grateful for the tender caregivers, nurses, and administrators at Anam Care who helped our family navigate through his challenging journey with Alzheimer's. In addition, we are deeply grateful for the compassionate care and support from the Serenity Hospice staff.
Memorial service will be at 5 p.m. Friday, February 24, 2017, with visitation preceding the service from 4 to 5 p.m. at Christ the Rock Lutheran Church, 8330 Newburg Rd, Rockford, Illinois 61108. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of contributions to the Alzheimer's Association or the Lost Lake Community Club. To share a memory or on-line condolences, please visit olsonfh.com.