Lester D. Andersen, 'Andy' was born July 18, 1921 at Herrick, South Dakota, the oldest of Alma and Ernest 'Mose' Andersen. Lester passed away December 18, 2016 at the Community Memorial Hospital in Burke, South Dakota at the age of 95 years and 5 months.  Lester attended Herrick High School in Herrick, South Dakota.  While attending school in Herrick, Lester loved reading books and helping the teachers in school.

After high school, Lester joined the Civilian Conservation Corps. When

Lester and his family were living in Bell, California during World War II. After the Pearl Harbor bombing and receiving permission from his mother, 5 days later Lester enlisted in the United States Army. After the conclusion of WWII, Lester returned to South Dakota for a brief time.  He then returned to military, enlisting in the United States Air Force. During his 30+ year career, Lester spent time all over the world including Germany, Italy, Panama, South America, South Africa, Taiwan and 2 tours in Vietnam.  Lester was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force with the ranking of Senior Master Sergeant in December 1, 1972.  He then made his home in Herrick, South Dakota enjoying carpentry, gardening, reading, listening to music and taking trips in his car.  In his later years, Lester moved to Burke, South Dakota living in the housing units and TLC Assisted Living. Lester enjoyed going to the Casino even if it was to make a deposit and have dinner with family or friends.   Lester moved to Butte Healthcare in Butte, Nebraska June 2015 until his death.  Lester continued working his puzzles, enjoying a cup of coffee, a bowl of tomato soup and a Hershey chocolate candy.  Lester was a member of the Allen Louden Post in Herrick, South Dakota, which was named after his uncle.

His 'little brother' Bill Andersen, many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and friends survive Lester.

Lester is preceded in death by his parents, Alma and Ernest 'Mose' Andersen, Brother Adrian Andersen, Sisters Imogene Hall and Marcene Whitley, Brother's in Law Emmitt Hall and Pat Whitley, Sister's in Law Wilma Andersen and Mary Andersen, Nieces Grace and Penny Andersen and Patty Fischer, Nephews David Hall and Rodney Whitley.

Funeral services for Lester Andersen , age 95 , of Burke, SD will be held on Thursday, December 22, 2016 at 10:00 AM at Clausen Funeral Home in Burke, SD.  Burial will be in the Herrick Cemetery, Herrick.  There will be a visitation on Wednesday from 5:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home.