Gerald Paul “Jeep” Andersen

After 79 years of taking risks, making a difference to everyone he would meet, and having a deep love for his family, Gerald Paul (Jeep) Andersen reunited with his wife Patricia in heaven as a result of a car accident on December 9, 2021

He was born March 12, 1942, in Chandler, Arizona, and graduated from Chandler High School in 1960. Born and raised on a farm, Jeep continued to farm his entire life. Over 53 years ago he married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Robinson Andersen, who provided the grace, dignity, and charm that softened Jeep’s rough, agricultural edges.

He spent his life on earth encouraging people to be better. Jeep motivated people in ways that only he could. He loved people who strived to progress and did not tolerate lazy fools. He had strong opinions and let you hear them (or read them on signs in his front yard).

He is survived by his five children Mark (Julie), Brent, Scott (Tiffany), Robin (Clayton Lee), and Amy (Mark Jones); 24 grandchildren; and eight-and-a-half great-grandchildren. He is also survived by four sisters; Vonda, Darlene, Tommie Sue, and Marilyn. He was preceded in death by—and now joins—his mother and father, Thomas and Marva Andersen. He is also preceded in death by five of his siblings; Don, Darnall, Joe, Myrl, and Lilly Louise. He is admiringly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

After losing his wife, Jeep reconnected with Laura, who he knew from childhood, and was engaged to be married. She brought light and joy back into his life.

There will be a viewing on Saturday, December 18, at 9:00 a.m. The funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m., during which we will celebrate a life lived to the fullest. The services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints meetinghouse at 1111 East Knox Road Tempe, Arizona.