Obituary for Elliott “Andy” Andrew Anderson

Elliott “Andy” Andrew Anderson, 82, formerly of Burlington died Thursday, January 18, 2024.  Andy made it clear he was ready, and had lived “a great life!”

Born November 22, 1941, in Burlington, to Oscar Andrew and Inez Martha Jones Anderson. He would often tell stories of his time growing up in Burlington including special memories with his siblings, friends, and family. At 17, he joined the United States Marine Corps and proudly served from 1958 to 1964. 

Andy married Patricia “Patty” Ann Bright on August 3, 1962 and thus began a life where they would continually inspire, motivate, and support each other -and those around them- through their many passions and interests.

Andy started work for J. I. Case Company in April, 1962. During this time, he became active in UAW Local 807 serving as Department Stewart, Committeeman, and five terms as president of the Local. He was appointed to the staff of the International UAW Union in July of 1974 and worked out of the Detroit headquarters as an International representative, servicing the UAW J. I. Case Department in contract negotiations, arbitration, and administrative duties. 

In 1978, he was promoted to Administrative Assistant and served three Vice-Presidents and Financial Secretary Treasurer in succession. He was responsible for negotiations and contract administration for a number of UAW represented Corporations. He also represented the UAW on several occasions for key meetings with trade unions across multinational corporations in Britain and Europe.

Upon retiring in 1993, Andy and Patty returned to Burlington to be near family, spend time enjoying their many hobbies, and begin a full restoration of an 1888 Victorian home. 

During this time, Andy continued to serve communities he cared about and advocate for his union brothers and sisters. He helped to form the UAW-807 Retirees Chapter and remained active. Andy was instrumental in two Federal lawsuits, one to stop the corporation from requiring retirees to pay insurance payments for their lifetime benefits. After a seven year court battle, his perseverance and work ensured UAW Retirees receive their benefits with no premiums and at no cost, as called for under the agreement. The other suit ensured retirees could still count on supplemental pension benefits that were hard fought in the previous negotiated agreement.

He was active in the Democrat party starting in 1962, campaigning for Robert Kennedy in California, elected National Delegate to the 1972 Democratic Convention, served many years as precinct committeeman and early supporter of Barack Obama, campaigning for his election and re-election to presidency.

Andy said he was a “trade unionist with a social conscience first and a democrat second”.
Andy was active in the community serving on the City of Burlington’s Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Parks Commission.

He was appointed to the Planning and Implementation of Projects and Programs for the Saunderson Heights Neighborhood, serving as President for several terms.

Andy was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. and the Marine Corp League. He was involved in a fundraising campaign to build the National Museum of the Marine Corps, subsequently invited and attended the November 2006 historic opening in Quantico, Virginia. Andy also made sure the Marine Corps birthday was celebrated every year at the Burlington V.F.W. by providing a few kegs for veterans to enjoy and share stories over.

In recognition of his democratic and community service, Andy was made an honorary Colonel in the Iowa National Guard by then Governor Chet Culver.

Andy’s hobbies covered many facets. He and his wife, Patty, enjoyed travel in the U.S. and abroad, home renovation projects, and time spent boating on the Mississippi River with friends and family. He was a political cartoonist, avid reader, student of history and award-winning military modeler. He loved a good conversation and political debate, especially while sitting on his patio on a nice summer evening. 

Andy is survived by his daughter Tricia (Jerry) Anderson of Asbury, IA, son Todd (Michelle) Anderson of Hampton, VA, granddaughters, Anna Chalfin of Chicago, IL and Tessa Derby of Gridley, IL, one sister Kristine (Lex) Pieters, Voorst, Netherlands and one brother Tom (Debbie) Anderson, Burlington, IA, several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Patty, brother Jay and sister Patricia Moseley.

Per Andy’s wishes he will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held on June 9, 2024, starting at Catfish Charlie’s in Dubuque, IA. From 1:30-2:30, there will be a tour boat cruise on the Mississippi River and 2:30-4:30 will be in the banquet area of the restaurant.