Richard "Doc" Anderson

Richard “Doc” Anderson, age 73, of Hastings, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

Doc was born on February 16, 1952, in Olivia, Minnesota, to Edward and Lola (Saatkamp) Anderson. He was one of four boys, growing up alongside his brothers Norman, Bruce, and his twin brother, Pete, in Hector, Minnesota. From an early age, Doc learned the value of hard work and responsibility.

After graduating high school, he attended Willmar Vo-Tech for drafting. At just 16 years old, he began working for the phone company in Hector mowing lawns, and through dedication and grit, he worked his way up through the company. He devoted his entire working life to the phone company, beginning as a teenager and continuing faithfully until his retirement.

In 1982, Doc met Kathy Tobin on a blind date in Diamond Bluff, Wisconsin. They were married in 1983 in Las Vegas, and it was anything but a spur-of-the-moment decision. Together they welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth, in 1984, and their son, Jim, in 1987.

The family lived in Stacy, Minnesota until 1991, then moved to New Ulm, and in 1996 settled in Hastings, which became home. Doc worked hard and traveled often, but when he was home, he made the most of his time. He loved boating on the river with his family, enjoying a cold beer, and traveling together to many different places. He also took great pride in his coin and baseball card collections.

Doc was a quiet, laid-back man who was content with a simple, steady life. You would never find him on a dance floor, but you could always count on him. While living in New Ulm, he was active in the German community, hosting families from Germany for more than five years and forming lasting friendships.

More than anything, Doc loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a grandfather who treasured his grandchildren above all else. He was a steady presence, a good provider, and someone you could always rely on.

Doc is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; his children, Elizabeth (Eric) Decker, and Jim (Laura) Anderson; his grandchildren, Owen, Loretta, Skylar, and Hayden; his twin brother, Pete Anderson; along with nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Lola Anderson, and his brothers Norman and Bruce Anderson.

No services will be held at this time. Please check back later for further service information.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.