Melford Gene’ Andersen, 86, Jamestown, ND died Wednesday morning April 18, 2018 at his home in Jamestown, ND.

Gene Andersen was born April 16, 1932 the son of George and Dora (Walks) Andersen. He received his elementary education in the local school where he worked for farmers in the Sykeston, ND area. He entered the US Navy on September 11, 1952 at Fargo, ND. He served during the Korean Conflict in Europe. He was discharged August 20, 1956 at Norfolk, VA with the rank of ME3.

He and Beatrice Thomas were married August 27, 1958 at Fessenden, ND. Gene became a grain elevator trainee in Sykeston, ND later becoming a manager transferring to Frazier Grain Elevator at Brien, Petersburg and Wimbledon. Gene also worked for Hoggarth Brothers and Cavendish Farms until his health started failing. They moved into Jamestown where they have resided.

He was a member of the Basilica of St. James in Jamestown, ND and life member of the Knights of Columbus. He also was a member of the American Legion in Wimbledon for 60 years and life member of the VFW. Gene enjoyed his family and taught them the value of hard work; teaching his children and grandchildren how to weld.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Beatrice, Jamestown, ND; his children, Kurtis (Diane), Jamestown, ND; Kevin (Delia), LeMoore, CA; Dean (Holly), Creston, WA; Linda (Calvin) Leyendecker, Marion, ND; 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Eunice (Duane) Johnson, Fargo, ND; Dorothy Nordick, Fargo, ND; Dian Nicklay, Fargo, ND; Sharon (Tom) Navarro, Fargo, ND; 2 brother-in-law’s, Fred Christiansen and Gordy Artnson.

He was preceded death by his parents and 3 sisters.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 PM Saturday April 21, 2018 at the Basilica of St. James in Jamestown, ND with Monsignor Jeffrey Wald, presiding.

Rosary/Vigil Service 7:00 PM Friday at the Haut Funeral Home, Jamestown, ND

Visitation 9-8 Friday at the Funeral Home

Burial will take place at a later date in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Jamestown, ND.

Arrangements are by the Haut Funeral Home in Jamestown, ND.