Larry Allen Andersen

June 6, 1957–March 10, 2022

Larry Allen Andersen, age 64, of Brookline, MO, was called to his eternal rest on March 10, 2022, in Springfield, MO, after a 15-month battle with prostate cancer. Larry was born in Fort Dodge, IA, to Harvey and Dorothy (Petersen) Andersen on June 6, 1957, and soon after was baptized into Christ. Due to the nature of his father’s job, Andersen and his family moved frequently during his younger years. The family eventually settled in Brewster, WA, where he was confirmed. Andersen attended Brewster High School and graduated in 1975. He then attended college at Concordia College in Portland, OR, and Concordia College in Seward, NE, and earned his degree in Education. Several years later he returned to school and received his Master’s Degree in Administration from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA.

Andersen married the love of his life, Rhonda Joy (Klug) Andersen in 1988. They were blessed with two children, Bethany Joy and Joseph Allen. Over the years, Andersen taught in Lutheran Schools in many states - Colorado, Washington, California, Minnesota, and Missouri. He served as a principal and teacher at Lutheran School Association in Cole Camp, Missouri from 2006-2018. It brought him great joy to be able to share Jesus with his students whether it be in the classroom, on the ball field, or the basketball court.

Andersen’s parents and two sisters, Marilyn and Carol, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Rhonda; daughter Bethany of Springfield; and son Joseph and his wife, Alexandra, of Tucson, AZ; and several nieces and nephews. He enjoyed hunting, flower gardening, model planes, and traveling. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held Monday, March 21, 2022, at Hope Lutheran Church in Republic, MO, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation prior from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Memorial donations are preferred to the Heifer Project or Creation Instruction Association.