Marion Royce Anderson

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

 July 22, 1921 - May 28, 2007

BENKELMAN -- Marion Royce Anderson, 85, died Monday (May 28, 2007) at the Dundy County Hospital in Benkelman.

He was born near Haigler on July 22, 1921, to George "Tom" and Iva (Wilkenson) Anderson and graduated from Parks High School.

Royce served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II and received his honorable discharge in 1945.

On Jan. 17, 1945, he was united in marriage to LaNeta E. Weiss at Benkelman.  To this union two children were born, Rhea and Randall.

After returning home, Royce worked construction for a short time and then helped Joe Laughlin at the funeral home in Benkelman.  He later became employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a mail clerk.  He retired in 1980 after serving as Postmaster in Benkelman for many years.

Royce was a people person and easily made friends.  He enjoyed life in rural Nebraska and was a resident of Dundy County all of his life.  He enjoyed sports of all kinds, and held a passion for the game of golf.

Preceding him in death are his parents, George "Tom" and Iva Anderson; brothers, Orville and Don; and two infant siblings.

Survivors include his loving wife of more than 62 years, LaNeta Anderson of Benkelman; daughter, Rhea Hatch and husband, Ken of Arizona; son, Randall Anderson of England; sister, Mildred Rowley of Lincoln; two grandchildren, Scott Hatch and wife, Kristan of Arizona, Lara Brown and husband, Horace of Tennessee; four great-grandchildren, Jamie Hatch, Payne Brown, Kaylen Hatch and Camille Brown; nieces, Marian Ellis and husband, Bob, Donna Behlke, Susan Lutz and husband, Marty, all of Benkelman, Vonda Knackstedt and husband, Elwin of Greeley, Colo., Sharri Rowley of Lincoln; his special buddy, Bud Cline; and numerous other relatives, cousins, brothers and sisters-in-law, friends, and neighbors.

A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.  There will be no viewing or visitation.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.