Stanley Charles Andersen
Stanley Charles Andersen, known affectionately as “Stanley Andy” was born on June 9, 1946, in Nome, Alaska, to proud parents Steffen and Mary Andersen. He shared this world with his twin brother, Steffen Leon Andersen, and older sister Mary Andersen Straub.
For those fortunate enough to witness the camaraderie of the Andersen siblings, it was a source of endless entertainment. Stanley cherished his role as the surprise sibling, reminding everyone that Steff was older by 45 minutes. Their banter could easily become a comedy show, always revealing the depth of their close bond and mutual respect and love for each other.
Stan’s love for basketball began in high school, where he played for the Nome Nanooks. He was a vital part of the 1964 State Champions B Division Team, earning him a place on the Alaskan All State Team. His support for Nanooks never wavered, he was always donating to fundraisers or purchasing a lunch or dinner for the team when traveling. Stan has always been so proud that there was a continuation of an Andersen #30, as he cheered on his grandsons, often traveling with the team to support them.
Following high school, Stan and his brother Steffen played two years at Clark Junior College in Vancouver, Washington, under the guidance of Coach Jud Heathcote. Coach Heathcote, later known for his tenure at Michigan State, fondly remembered the “Andersen Twins” from Nome and gave a chuckle that Stan was as gifted as he was finding “fans.” Stan’s basketball journey didn’t stop there; he continued playing in city leagues, even winning the Gold Classic in Juneau with the Nome team in 1972. He retired from competitive play with the Papa Bears in 1986, proudly holding the title of Lonnie O’Conner Iditarod Champions for the Class B Division.
Stan also served his country as a Navy Vietnam Veteran. He belonged to the 133 C Seabees division, serving two tours. Though he rarely spoke of his military service, he earned the National Defense Service medal, the Vietnam Service medal with fleet marine force combat operations insignia, three bronze stars, the Vietnam Campaign medal with device and the combat action ribbon. He was known for his Alaskan ingenuity, putting the honey bucket into use along with converting his locker into a shower. This marked the beginning of his Seabees career and his love for plumbing.
Upon his honorable discharge, Stan returned to Nome in 1970. He dedicated himself to serving fellow veterans through his involvement with Post 9569 Veterans of Foreign Wars, holding many officer positions from 2004 to 2023. Stan served as VFW Commander for seven years, Vice Commander for two years and Quartermaster for ten years. He spent countless hours volunteering and led efforts to provide marble headstones for veterans in the Nome Belmont Cemetery including the Alaska Territorial Guard, a testament to his unwavering respect for those who served.
In his civilian life, Stan worked as the office supervisor for the Department of Revenue in Nome and Kotzebue, where he forged lifelong friendships making annual trips to Kotzebue. Later, he ventured into self-employment as a plumber and managed the Bering Sea Saloon.
Stan was a man of many hats, both figuratively and literally. He was renowned for his crazy, unique headwear, but in life, he wore even more hats. Whether as a dedicated board member, council member, or VFW member, Stanley left his mark. He had a passion for dancing, a sharp sense of humor and was known for his loyalty. Of course, his constant use of sarcasm, often delivered in a “salty” or “direct” manner, added a distinct flavor to every conversation. Stan’s tenacity with numbers and budgeting was remarkable; he was always the first to ask, “Where is the money coming from, and where is it going?”
Stanley was a staunch advocate for community service, serving on various councils and commissions, including the Coastal Policy Council and the State Athletic Commission. His longest-standing public service commitment was to the Nome Common Council, where he served from 1977 to 1982 and then from 1988 to 2018. In the six years of absence from the City Council he was appointed to the Planning Commission from 1983-1986. During this time he also was elected to the Nome Utility Board from 1986-1988, His dedication to the city was evident in his extensive 41 years of budgets and his collection of council meeting packets and notes, a testament to his love for numbers and his determination to ask the tough questions on behalf of the community.
Stan’s passion for community extended to his role as the Nome representative for Norton Sound Health Corporation. He served on the NSHC board from 2011 to 2023 and was awarded Board Member of the Year in 2017 and 2020. His focus was always on providing the region with the healthcare infrastructure needed to attract and retain healthcare professionals.
Stanley Charles Andersen’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and a zest for life that touched the hearts of many. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the communities he served. May his memory continue to inspire us to give our best in all that we do.
Stan is survived by his sister Mary Andersen Straub; his children Sharla Pate, Crystal Andersen-Booth, Derreck Andersen Travis Andersen, Justin Andersen, 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Stan was preceded in death by his parents Steffen and Mary Andersen, twin brother Steffen L. Andersen, grandson William Chase Booth and life partner Linda S. Nichols.