John Norman Andersen died of a massive heart attack Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at Mt. View Regional Medical Center in Las Cruces, NM.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Lynch Andersen; his son, John David Andersen (Vivian) step-son, James Ruebhausen, step-daughters, Megan Cody (Scott) Shannon Miller (Tom)and his six grandchildren; Jamie Noffsinger, Jennifer Charawell, Jim Ruebhausen, Marissa Pyle, Paul Mano, Joe Mano, and the combined six great-grandchildren, Kiera Charawell, Aiden Noffsinger, Bradley Noffsinger, Kaylynn Noffsinger, Ty Chase and Mason Mano. John is survived by his younger brother David Andersen (Virginia), nephew Tom Andersen (Fran), Niece Barbara Jewell (Bob), niece Carol Lang (Thom) and our adopted New Mexico adopted family of 20 years, Larry and Yvette Nuñez and the beautiful granddaughters, Olyvia and Klarysa.

John Andersen was Chicago born and raised, son of Alice and Norman Andersen, a big city boy who fell in love with Silver City, its warm, welcoming small town environment and the natural endless beauty of its surrounding wilderness. He loved camping and hiking and river rafting and had taken classes in geology and participated in many geological field trips.

John was retired military, a WWII veteran who served in Germany. He took great pride in serving his country and while he had battled with Alzheimer's for years, that military service was one of his most outstanding memories.

His greatest happiness was with his wife and family, which included the furry four-legged ones. He was, by God's grace, an old man when he died and an old-fashioned one. He was a man of honor. His word was his bond, his love was unconditional, his loyalty unwavering. His innate kindness welcomed and sustained all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Terrazas Funeral Chapels Saturday, October 31 at 2pm officiated by Deacon Jerry Miller. A private family burial will follow at Memory Lane Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Colorado Blue Moon Akita Rescue 1955 S. Havana St. Aurora, CO 80014 (303)366-8611 would be greatly appreciated. Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.