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Richard Andersen, 85

Richard passed away Nov. 9, 2017, in Post Falls, Idaho. He was born Nov. 24, 1931, in Kinzua, Ore. to Sena and Charles Andersen. Richard served in the National Guard until his enlistment in the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 19, 1954. Richard served in both Japan and Korea during this period in Army Intelligence.

Richard met and married Margret Gundmanson in 1956. They moved to Iceland (Margret’s home) where he worked for the Bendix Corporation. They returned to the USA in 1962, and were later divorced in 1967 after Margret returned to Iceland. Richard later married Carla Johnson and Myra Monroe; both women preceded him in death.

Richard loved writing short stories, acting in community theatre and performing magic both on stage and for family. He enjoyed all kinds of sports, especially football, and he even mastered the art of fencing. Richard also spent 24 years as a licensed clinical hypnotherapist for the state of Washington. He helped many to overcome addictions, fears, foibles and relieving pain, real or imagined, which enabled them to live fuller and richer lives.

Richard later retired to North Idaho so he could be nearer to his family, and has spent the last few years at Hayden Homes and Life Care in Post Falls.

He is survived by sisters, Bonnie, Freddi and Marian Miller; sons, Bjorgvin, Conrad, and Stephen; daughter, Frieda Anderson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Richard was also a member of Mary Immaculate Queen Catholic Church. The Rosary and Funeral Mass were said by Rev. Father Benedict Hughes on Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 14 and 15, 2017. A burial followed at the Washington VA Cemetery in Medical Lake. Richard remains in our hearts and minds as a beloved brother and father to those of us who now miss him.