Rich Anderson

Richard Munson "Rich" Anderson, age 81, of Kendallville and long-time East Noble High School educator and administrator, passed away April 18, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

Mr. Anderson was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on January 23, 1945, to the late Everett Munson Anderson and Theressa Viola (Zumbrun) Anderson. Rich grew up in Columbia City, Indiana and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1963. 

He married Peggy Lu Coon on November 27, 1964, at Tri Lakes Baptist Church, Columbia City. 

He graduated from Taylor University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He also graduated St. Francis College in 1971 with a master's degree in education. Rich furthered his education with an Administrative Certification from IPFW University in 1975, along with additional work at IPFW and Ball State University.

He was hired at East Noble School Corporation in 1967 and spent his entire professional career at East Noble until retiring in June of 2000. He also was part-time supervisor/coordinator for the adult education program with Four County Vocational Co-op (Impact Institute) from 2001-2010.  After retirement, he worked part time at Shepherd’s GM Dealership starting in 2000.

As a teacher and administrator, Rich felt that he needed to provide the right conditions to allow students to get the best education possible. He also believed that students needed to be encouraged to enjoy the total school experience by getting involved. That could best be done by providing a safe learning environment for students and staff. As a result, he attended countless activities and created rewards and extra opportunities for students. If students felt good about coming to school, it would improve conditions for all.

Rich was all about serving others. He was active in various community activities over the years including member & trustee of First Christian Church, member of Kendallville Lions Club since 1985, board member of Life & Family Services (2002-14), board member of Kendallville Library Endowment Fund (2001-2012), Junior Achievement, Dekko Youth Board, Kendallville Street Commission, YMCA Bluefins, KARE Housing Board, Sports broadcasting on WAWK of games for ENHS, and coordinating Old Tyme Popcorn Stand. He was honored as Kendallville Citizen of Year in 2009 and named to ENHS Athletic Wall of Fame in 2010.

Survivors include:
Wife, Peggy Anderson of Kendallville.
Daughter, Danielle and Jeff Newman of Fort Wayne.
Son, Chase and Kim Anderson of Kendallville.
Four grandchildren: Andrew Newman and Makenzie Harshey both of Fort Wayne; Nathan Newman of Fort Wayne and Indiana University; Paige Anderson of Kendallville and Valparaiso University; and Caden Anderson of Kendallville and Franklin College. 

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Theressa Anderson; brother, Dr. Garland DeWayne "Wayne" Anderson (2015); and sister, Marilyn Pulley (2007).

There will be a gathering of family and friends on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 2:00 - 6:00PM at First Christian Church.
A celebration of the life of Rich Anderson will be held Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11:00AM at First Christian Church with Pastor David Gruber and Pastor Michael DeSanto officiating the service. There will be visitation from 10:00 - 11:00AM prior to the service. 
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in honor of Rich to either First Christian Church or Lion's Club East Noble Scholarship Fund. 

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