Emma (Paardekooper) Andersen (1920 - 2006)

Born 5 Dec 1920 in Chicago, IL

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Biography

Mrs. Emma Cooper Andersen, 85, of Taylor Glen Lane, Concord, N.C., formerly of Gainesville, died Friday, May 5, 2006, at the Gardens of Taylor Glen Healthcare Center after a period of declining health.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Emma Andersen represents the consummate definition of the American woman. Born Dec. 5, 1920, to Dutch immigrant parents, the late Abraham Paardekooper and Katherine DeJong Paardekooper, in Chicago, Emma went on to become a nurse and a first lieutenant in the Army during World War II. While serving in New Guinea, she met the love of her life, Thorvald Joseph Andersen. After their marriage in the heartland of America, they gave birth to eight children. She instilled in each of these children a deep moral backbone and a strong work ethic that would see all of them to a successful life. Her progeny has spread throughout the world, with 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Emma Andersen truly represents the definition of a dedicated wife, loving mother and most importantly, the American woman. Her legacy will live on.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Thorvald Andersen of Concord, N.C.; her sons, Tom Andersen of Manlius, N.Y., Jim Andersen of Ann Arbor, Mich., Mark Andersen of Guadalajara, Mexico, Chris Andersen of Dalton, John Andersen of Ortonville, Mich., Steve Andersen of Florence, Ky., and David Andersen of Waterford, Mich.; and daughters, Jobekah Trotta of Folsum, Calif., and Janet Andersen of Davidson, N.C.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus Co., 5003 Boy Scout Camp Road, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Whitley's Funeral Home, Kannapolis, N.C.

The Times, Gainesville, Ga., May 8, 2006

Originally published Monday, May 8, 2006

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