Larry Andersen

Larry James Andersen, 69, of Woodbine, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at Missouri Valley Community Hospital. He was born on October 1, 1941, on the family farm in Spring Valley Township Viborg, SD. Larry James Andersen was born to Harvey and Freda (Hansen) Andersen. He attended rural school, District 39, near the family farm for eight years. Larry received his GED in 1973 from Missouri Valley Community School because he wanted to demonstrate to his children the importance of an education.

By volunteering for the draft on his 17th birthday, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served two and a half years in various posts along the French-German border. He was a Specialist in the Signal Corps, as well as a Military Policeman. On his return home, he served two years at White Sands, NM. He was honorably discharged on July 5, 1963, at Fort Bliss, TX.

On August 9, 1961, he married Sharon Langrock. Larry started working at General Telephone in Everett, WA in 1970 and transferred to Logan-Woodbine. During this employment, Larry served as a shop union steward for the Communication Workers of America for 15 years. Finally after 25 years with the telephone company, he retired. After retirement, Larry enjoyed making wooden toys, going to craft shows, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marian Weins; and two brothers, Leon and Harlan. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, of 49 years; five children Terri Harkert of Des Moines, IA; Kelly Andersen and wife Beth of Bellevue, NE, Dan Andersen and wife Donna of Blair, NE, Wendy and husband Randy Taylor and Peggy and husband John Monahan all of Woodbine, IA, 11 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren; brother, Jerome and wife Carol Andersen of Sioux Falls, SD, sister Dianne and husband Lee Rist of Centerville, SD; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial
10:30 am Saturday, May 7, 2011
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Woodbine, Iowa

Clergy
Rev. Howard Fitzgerald

Musician
Mrs. Merrill McElwain

Honorary Pall Bearers
Jenni Taylor ~ Karen Andersen ~ Monica Harkert

Pall Bearers
James Harkert ~ Joseph Andersen ~ Andrew Taylor
Brian Andersen ~ Sean Monahan ~ Adam Taylor
Nathan Andersen ~ Matthew Monahan

Military Graveside Rites
American Legion Weiss Post #143

Final Resting Place
Woodbine Cemetery
Woodbine, Iowa