Gary Anderson Sr.

Gary Lee Anderson Sr., 88, of Richmond passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at his home. Gary was born Feb. 6, 1938, in Leon, Iowa, the son of Willis B. and Holly M. (Baker) Anderson. He was united in marriage to Evelyne Hannelore Krüse of Berlin, Germany, on Dec. 22, 1958. She preceded him in death on June 14, 2003.

Survivors include his two sons, Michael B. (Julie) Anderson of Liberty and Gary Lee Anderson Jr. of Richmond; and two daughters, Debra Lee Anderson of Topeka, Kan., and Patricia Ann (John) Gilfillan of Norborne.

He also is survived by his grandchildren: Kenny (Lucy) Anderson-Berry, Danielle (Jordan) Weakley, Holly Anderson, Shawn (Stephanie) Anderson, Zachary Anderson, Johnna (Alex) Dunwoodie and Tim Anderson. Other survivors include seven great-grandchildren: Scarlett Anderson, Sophia Anderson, Hannah Weakley, Atalie Weakley, Rhett Dunwoodie, Koehn Berry and Evelyn Berry.

A brother, Steven (Sharon) Anderson of Leon, survives as well.

In addition to his parents and wife, Gary was preceded in death by two brothers, Billy A. Anderson and Buddy G. Anderson; and a sister, Betty J. Strickler.

Gary was raised and educated in the area of his birth, and graduated from Leon High School.

Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Berlin, where he met the love of his life. The two were married while he was serving his country, beginning a marriage built on faith, love and devotion.

After his honorable military service, Gary returned home before eventually settling in the Richmond area.

Gary believed in the value of hard work and spent his life providing for his family. He worked at Lake City Arsenal before becoming a jet engine mechanic for Trans World Airlines, all while owning and operating a farm where he raised livestock and crops. It was typical for Gary to juggle multiple jobs while tending to the farm, doing whatever was necessary to care for those he loved.

Though work filled much of his life, he always found time for family and friends. He especially looked forward to “Thirsty Thursday,” enjoying the fellowship, laughter and time spent together with those closest to him. Gary never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a man of unwavering faith, a tireless worker and someone whose greatest joy was caring for his family.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Faith Lutheran Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services were scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at Faith Lutheran Church in Richmond. Visitation was to be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.

Burial was to be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Norborne.

Please share your memories of Gary with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.