Gary Lee Anderson, Sr., 88, of Richmond, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at his home.

Gary was born on February 6, 1938, in Leon, IA, the son of Willis B. and Holly M. (Baker) Anderson.  He was united in marriage to Evelyne Hannelore Krüse of Berlin, Germany, on December 22, 1958; she preceded him in death on June 14, 2003.

Survivors include: two sons, Michael B. (Julie) Anderson of Liberty and Gary Lee Anderson, Jr. of Richmond; two daughters, Debra Lee Anderson of Topeka, KS, and Patricia Ann (John) Gilfillan of Norborne; six grandchildren: Kenny (Lucy) Anderson-Berry, Danielle (Jordan) Weakley, Holly Anderson, Shawn (Stephanie) Anderson, Zachary Anderson, Johnna (Alex) Dunwoodie, and Tim Anderson; six great-grandchildren: Scarlett Anderson, Sophia Anderson, Hannah Weakley, Atalie Weakley, Rhett Dunwoodie, Koehn Berry, and Evelyn Berry; and brother, Steven (Sharon) Anderson of Leon, IA.

In addition to his parents and wife, Gary was preceded in death by two brothers, Billy A. Anderson and Buddy G. Anderson, and 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 United States Army and was stationed in Berlin, Germany, 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 (TWA), all while owning and operating a farm where he raised livestock and crops. It was not uncommon 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 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church in Richmond.  Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  Burial will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Norborne.  Please remember to share your memories of Gary with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.