Richard A. Anderson

Richard Alan Anderson, 89, of Plainwell, MI (previously of Clarendon Hills, IL), passed away surrounded by family on June 19, 2026.

Richard (Dick) was born on February 8, 1937, in Oak Park, IL, to Richard George Anderson and Myrtle (Stein) Anderson. He was raised in Elmwood Park, IL (a Chicago suburb), graduated from Proviso H.S. in 1954, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from DePaul University in 1976.

On August 3, 1963, Richard married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Smejkal, at North Austin Lutheran Church in Chicago. Together they shared nearly 63 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, service, and devotion to one another.

Richard proudly served his country in the Illinois Army National Guard from 1959 to 1965. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long career in accounting, working for Harris Trust and Savings Bank, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and ending his career as an auditor for the State of Illinois Department of Insurance.

While Richard was diligent in his work, his true priorities were always his faith and his family. He was a gentle, patient, and faithful man whose quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He never sought recognition or advancement for its own sake, choosing instead to invest his time and energy in the people he loved. Whether attending Little League games, school performances, football games, recitals, or family gatherings, Richard could always be counted on to show up with encouragement and support.

A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Richard faithfully served his church in many roles over the years, including Sunday School Superintendent, AWANA and summer camp bus driver, choir member, and usher. His life reflected a servant's heart and a willingness to help others.

Richard enjoyed bowling, softball, golfing, fishing, camping, and building balsa wood model airplanes. In fact, he was working on a model airplane two days before his passing. He loved family vacations and believed that experiences and time together were far more valuable than possessions. He taught his children the importance of honesty, putting family first, hard work, and financial responsibility.

Above all, Richard treasured his family, and nothing brought a bigger smile to his face than spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family remembers him as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, faithful servant, and a man of integrity whose legacy will continue through generations.

Richard is survived by his wife, Barbara of Plainwell, MI; his sons, Rich (Kristin) Anderson of Plainwell, and Dr. Scott (Suzanne) Anderson of Hot Springs, AR; his grandchildren, Katlyn (Spencer) McClure of AR, Elizabeth (Kaleb) Roberson of Kalamazoo, Nic (Kaylee) Anderson of AR, Bryce Anderson of Kalamazoo; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Alexander, Rosie, and Gideon. Richard was preceded in death by his brother, John.

Visitation is Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland, MI. A memorial service will follow at 5:00 p.m. A graveside service and interment will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 12 p.m. (Central time) at Mount Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan's Purse, or Response Care Center, Richland, MI. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Richard's “faith” has become “sight” and that he is now in the presence of his Savior, free from pain and suffering. Though he’ll be deeply missed, his example of faithfulness, kindness, humility, and love will remain a blessing to all who knew him.