ANDERSON, Robert Wayne

Robert Wayne Anderson, 80 years of age from Minden, passed away on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney. Robert was born on December 6, 1930, to Margaret (Monk) and David Anderson at the family farm southwest of Minden. This farm was homesteaded in 1876 by Robert's grandfather, Andrew P. Anderson. Robert attended the country school, District 48 through 8th grade near his home. He graduated from Minden High School in 1948. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church in Minden. Throughout his lifetime, he maintained his strong faith and membership at Bethany Lutheran Church. After graduating, he worked on the family farm. In 1951, he entered the Nebraska National Air Guard. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Robert developed many friendships in the service and maintained these wonderful friendships throughout his lifetime. After being discharged from the service, Robert farmed with his father and eventually took over the farm. On November 6th, 1955, Robert married his dance partner, Evelyn Johnson. To this union, were born two sons, Ronald and Dan. Robert enjoyed his many friendships, family and doted on his six grandchildren. With his ear for music, he was a self-taught musician, and enjoyed playing the accordion and harmonica. He was a wonderful dancer and was a favored partner by many. His favorite dance was the polka. Robert played a mean game of checkers, enjoyed cards, camping, fishing and hunting. Robert truly enjoyed being with his family and friends and will be missed by many and always remembered with warmth and love. He was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Minden and the Minden American Legion Post 94 for 50 years. He was also a member of the Elks Club in Kearney. He has served as director of the Farmers Coop Grain and Supply Company. Survivors include his wife, Evelyn, of 55 years; two sons, Ron Anderson and his wife, Elaine, of Kearney and Dan Anderson of Minden; six grandchildren, Kayla, Kassi, David and Brent, Erika, and Brooke; sister, Marjorie Westesen and her husband, John, of Kearney; sister-in-law, Lois Schmidt and her husband, Dale, of Monument, Colorado; brother-in-law, Eugene Johnson, and his wife, Lynn of Wenatchee, Washington; brother-in-law, Stanley Johnson, of Hastings; brother-in-law, Howard Johnson, and his wife, Marilyn, of Lebanon, Oregon; brother-in-law, Arvin Johnson of Desert Hot Springs, California and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Robert Johnson and sister-in-law, Linda Johnson. Funeral services will be on Saturday, April 9, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Minden with the Rev. Donald Hunzeker officiating. Military rites will be provided by the Minden American Legion. Burial will be at a later time. Visitation will be at the Layton-Craig Funeral Home in Minden on Friday, April 8 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. and 7:00-8:00 p.m. with the family present from 3-5 p.m. Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.laytoncraigfuneralhome.com.