Daniel Andersen

Daniel Andersen, age 95, of Grand Rapids, passed away Monday May 3, 2021. He was born in Berlin, NJ on May 30, 1925 to the late Carl and Emma (Madsen) Andersen. He married his wife, Doris, who survives him, on Christmas Day, 1950. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII (Ensign). He studied the Bible with Doris and went on to become a Christian minister and published "This I Believe" which was an independent Christian newsletter and study guide mostly of New Testament themes. Dan attended Union College, class of 1947, moved with his wife to Grand Rapids, Michigan and accepted a position at Grand Rapids Junior College (now GRCC), while teaching a bible class which had been started by the late O.Q. Sellers. He attended Michigan State University for a year. When a new college formed in Allendale, he left GRJC and became one of the first faculty members at what was then known as Grand Valley State Colleges (Thomas Jefferson College), now GVSU. He taught physics, astronomy, cosmology and other science classes. He continued teaching bible classes until winding down in the last decade. He and his wife advocated organic gardening since the 1970's. They were avid peace advocates and marched for racial justice, they were environmentalists, gardeners, conservationists, and have helped so many people, especially their children, David, Donna and Donald. He leaves his wife, Doris, his children and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, (616) 452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Daniel Andersen, please visit our flower store.