Obituary: Lavern Hans "Andy" Anderson - Class of 1952

MADISON - Lavern Hans "Andy" Anderson, age 75, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully surrounded by his family, on Sunday, October 11, 2009, at St. Mary's. He was born on February 3, 1934, in Madison, the son of Hans and Gertrude (Sorge) Anderson. Lavern attended schools in Madison, graduating from Central High in 1952. He married Kay Thomas on December 2, 1958, and to this union two daughters were born, Pamela Sue and Kathy Elizabeth. Lavern worked for the State of Wisconsin for a number of years, before moving to Denver, Colo., and living there for 11 years. Upon returning to Wisconsin he went to work for Marshall Erdman and Associates, where he retired after 30 years. Lavern and Kay loved to travel, especially in their travel trailer and followed Wisconsin sports and Packers football. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and camping. Lavern was a member of Lake Edge United Church of Christ, where he served on several committees, and worked with the youth, traveling with them on five work camps. "Papa" also enjoyed attending his grandchildren's school functions and sporting events. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kay; his daughters, Pam (Andy) Lewis of Middleton, and Kathy (Dan) McCartney of Waunakee; and his four grandchildren, who were the light of his life, Briana Lewis, Shawn Lewis, Kyle McCartney and Patrick McCartney; his 95 year old mother, Gertrude Harris of Madison; his sister, Doris (Ken) Urkoski of Columbus, Nebraska; brother, Eugene "Pete" (Joyce) Anderson of Madison; godmother/ aunt Jo Balser of Madison; a special cousin, Charlie Parks; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday,October 14, 2009, at MEMORIAL UNITED CHRIST OF CHURCH, 5705 W. Lacy Road, Fitchburg at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Lisa Schoenwetter presiding. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL HOME, 2950 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Memorials may be made to St. Stephen's Food Pantry. He will be truly missed by all who knew him and loved him. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral and Cremation Centers 2950 Chapel Valley Road

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on October 13, 2009