James "Jim" Andersen

James “Jim” Andersen, 81 Kearney resident Jim Andersen, 81 of Kearney passed away Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Kearney Regional Medical Center in Kearney. Private family services will be held at a later date with Interment following at Kearney Cemetery. A public visitation will be held 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 16, 2021 at O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Home. In Lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the First Lutheran Church, to Donor’s Choice or to the family for future designation. Condolences may be shared online at www.osrfh.com. Services are entrusted to O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services. James Richard Andersen was born January 17, 1940 in Gibbon, Nebraska to Raymond and Lola (Sheen) Andersen. He was raised in Gibbon and received his education from Gibbon High School, graduating with the class of 1958. On August 14, 1958, Jim was united in marriage to Jeanette Tagge. They made their home in Gibbon and later moved to Kearney in 1963. Jim worked with his dad at Andersen Wrecking, the family business, taking over the business ownership in 1973. He built the business into one of the most respected recycling facilities in Nebraska. He took much pride in his work and made many friends over the years. Jim enjoyed woodworking, fishing, camping, hunting and restoring old cars. His specialty was old Fords, including Model T’s and his 1931 Model A. He was happy being outdoors caring for their acreage. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Jim was an active member of First Lutheran Church for many years. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Jeanette Andersen of Kearney; sons, Kirby (Ronda) Andersen, Chris (Barbara) Andersen, and Mark (Heidi) Andersen all of Kearney; grandchildren, Michael (Rebekah) Andersen, Eric Andersen, Keisha (Brett) Fries, Danielle (Chris) Nathe, Sarah Franks, Kaleb Andersen and Kayley Andersen; great grandchildren, Wilder, Willow and Weston Andersen, Londyn and Kellen Fries, Reidy and Camden Nathe; brothers, Robert (Violet) Andersen of Gibbon, Don Andersen of Texas, Larry (Sue) Andersen of Gibbon; sister, Shirley (Dean) Follett of Kearney; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; son, Kirk Andersen; grandson, Blake Andersen; and sister, Betty Judd.

James "Jim" Andersen

January 17, 1940 - September 12, 2021