Richard A. Anderson

When reflecting on the life of Richard Anderson, it is easy to see his unwavering strength and his unconditional love for his family. He was a courageous advocate who was never afraid to stand up for what he believed in, impacting the lives of so many in the process. A proud husband, father, and grandfather, Richard always considered himself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones. He was a shining example of kindness and hard work, and he poured his heart and soul into everything that he did. Forever loved, Richard’s memory will be dearly cherished by those who knew him best.

Although the 1930s were largely defined by the hardship pf the Great Depression, Algot and Mary Anderson were able to shift their focus to an exciting time in their lives as they announced the birth of the baby boy they named Richard A. in Topeka, Kansas in the spring of 1931.

Growing up, Richard was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. He was raised in Topeka, Kansas, as one of four children. Richard’s father supported the family by working as a shop teacher at Topeka High School while his mother dedicated herself to staying close to home and raising her children. Richard grew up alongside his siblings, Rachael, John, and Jean. Richard discovered his love for music at a young age when he took up playing french horn in the school band. This passion would drive him for the rest of his life.

While pursuing his education, Richard attended local schools, including Topeka High School. Following his graduation from high school he moved on to bigger and better things at the University of Kansas. Richard received a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 1953 and was forever a fan of University of Kansas basketball. Later on, he attended the University of Michigan, graduating with a Master’s Degree in Industrial Relations.

New and exciting changes were in store for Richard as he grew closer to the woman who would quickly become the love of his life. Her name was Nancy Farrish, and the two first met in elementary school. Over the years, their relationship continued to blossom into something truly wonderful. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Richard and Nancy were married in the presence of family and friends in 1953. The couple moved around the country quite a bit throughout their marriage. When Richard felt the call to serve his country, he and Nancy settled down in Aberdeen, Maryland. He was drafted during the Korean Conflict and served stateside. Richard and Nancy would also live in Detroit, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Missouri, Indiana, and Ohio before returning to Grand Rapids in retirement.

All who knew Richard can certainly agree that, of all the things he loved in life, he treasured his family above all else. Together, he and Nancy were overjoyed to welcome their two beloved sons, Craig in 1961 and David shortly after in 1962, into their hearts and home. Richard and Nancy were able to provide a stable and nurturing environment for their sons. He stepped up to his role as a father and did his best to raise them into kind and hardworking men of character. Later in life, Richard was thrilled to become a grandfather to Phillip and Christopher. He adored his grandsons and doted on them whenever he could. Richard was always proud to watch his family tree grow to include so many members.

Being a firm believer in equal rights for all, Richard spent his entire career working to improve opportunities for people of color. In his free time, he pursued several hobbies. Richard loved attending concerts with Nancy and listening to classical and jazz music such as Mahler symphonies and The Modern Jazz Quartet. As his family and friends can attest, Richard had quite a sweet tooth and took advantage of any opportunity for a bit of ice cream or a root beer float. He had a skilled eye for classical cars and enjoyed spotting classics on the road and visits to the Gilmore Car Museum. Richard was a dedicated traveler, and he and Nancy made many trips throughout Western Michigan and across the country. They also took unforgettable trips to Europe and Scandinavia.

As his family and friends can attest, Richard Anderson understood the secret to a life well lived. He was a constant source of quiet strength for those around him, yet he was not afraid to speak up when the situation warranted it. Nothing brought Richard greater joy than spending time with his loved ones. Though he will be forever missed, Richard leaves behind a priceless legacy that his loved ones will be proud to continue.

Richard A. Anderson, age 91, of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2022.

He was born in Topeka, KS, in the spring of 1931 to the late Algot and Mary Anderson.

Along with his parents he is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Nancy who passed away in 2017 as well as by all three of his siblings.

He will be deeply missed by his sons, Craig (Sally) Anderson of Alto, MI and David (Mary) Anderson of Indianapolis, IN as well as by his two grandsons.

Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and working as a federal employee for many years.

A Graveside service is being scheduled to take place in the coming weeks where Richard will be laid to rest with Nancy in Rosedale Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the Covenant Village of the Great Lakes Benevolent Fund, (2510 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504).

To read more about Richard’s life, share a memory or sign his guestbook, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com