Russell Andersen

Russell Curtis Andersen, 71, Nevis, MN, formerly of Fargo, passed away on April 5, 2014.  Russell was born March 9, 1943 in Fargo, ND to Russell and Rose Andersen.  He grew up in Fargo and Maddock, ND.  He graduated from Fargo Central High School in 1961.  He graduated from Wahpeton State School of Science. 

Russell married Lucinda Folwick on August 24, 1963 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Fargo, ND.  Russell was employed with LJA in Fargo, where he designed many industrial projects and various industrial piping systems.  In 1975, Russell and Lucinda moved to Bismarck and Russell was employed with Basin Electric.  While at Basin, Russell monitored the construction of the Headquarters building, and captured all the design and construction documents for the Unit 2 of the Leland Olds Station.  He was one of the first people on both the Laramie River Station and Antelope Valley Station sites.  Russell retired from Basin Electric in April of 1995.  During his time in Bismarck he was active and supported his children throughout their schooling by attending numerous sporting events and band and choir concerts.  Russell served as the President of the St. Mary’s Central High School Parents Music Association.  He also enjoyed taking his family on numerous trips thought out the U.S. and Canada.  After retirement from Basin Electric, Russell worked for the United Conveyor Corporation selling and designing ash handling systems.  He was an avid supporter of both coal and lignite.  Russell also worked for GPM, Inc. designing pump systems.  He so enjoyed working with the wonderful and talented people there, he made lasting friendships and was proud to be part of the GPM family. 

Russell and Lucinda retired to a home on Lake Belle Taine near Nevis, MN.  Russell was extremely devoted to taking care of Lucinda while she suffered from Alzheimer’s for over 10 years.  Even after her move to the nursing home, he spent every day with her, feeding her every meal, reading to her, and holding her hand.  Russell loved the lake and Northern Minnesota.  He became active in the Belle Taine Lake Association, was a member of the Family Board at Heritage Living Center and an active member of the local gun club.  Russell loved to socialize: he had many weekly coffee clubs and enjoyed being part of an all men’s singing group.  He was an avid reader and still enjoyed doing drafting projects.

Russell’s greatest joy was his granddaughter, Kennedy.  From pushing her on the swing he made for her, to cheering her on at one of her many sporting activities, sending her fun text messages, congratulating her on her many academic achievements, and just a few months ago being there to turn her class ring.  He was so proud of all she has accomplished.  Kennedy will miss her cheerleader, her Papa.

Russell is survived by his daughters: Lizabeth, Fargo ND; LeAnn (Mike) Hunke and granddaughter, Kennedy, Glenwood, MD.  He is also survived by his sister, Linda Hazel, PA and his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lucinda and his parents.