Andersen: John Victor, Sept. 7, 1946 – Jan. 25, 2019

John Victor Andersen was born September 7, 1946. He was the baby in a family of four children born to Pete and Mina Andersen. His older sister was Alice, then brother Eric, sister Donna and then John. John lived his entire life in Bindloss until retiring.

He loved his home. Even once moved to Medicine Hat he always went back home to the farm to check out everything that was going on. John had a full life. Being a gas well operator and a farmer were his jobs but his passions were hunting, fishing and fixing things. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix if he had number 9 wire, silicone, duct tape and spray foam insulation.

He traveled quite a bit in his life throughout Canada and the US, to Scotland, Mexico, Cuba, trips to Alaska, but his absolute highlight was his trip to Australia. So many memories came from that trip for him.

John rarely called anyone by their given name. He loved nicknames and teasing you mercilessly. He had a heart of gold and he proved that all the way up to his last day by the donation of his eyes after he had passed away. We were told that up to 10 people could be helped by Dad’s eyes and specifically two blind people would now be able to see.

Dad had so many hospital and medical appointments over the years but he took it all in stride and carried on the best he could. Our entire family is so grateful for the incredible outpouring of support that all of our family, friends and neighbors have shown to our mom and dad previous and even now that Dad is gone. John loved his wife, who was never far from his side, his kids and grand kids.

He is survived by his wife Carol, daughter Heide (Bruce Downey, Brianna, Kyran, Emmarae, Aven and Monroe); son Troy (Tricia, Karter, Bennett and Calum Andersen); and son Cresten (Michelle, Ayden and Alyssa Andersen).

He was such a large presence in all of our lives and will be missed so very much. A celebration of John’s life was held in Medicine Hat February 2.