Still living a life full of purpose and love at the age of 74, Dan Anderson has spent his years building a legacy of faith, hard work and devotion to family and community. Born on March 27, 1951, in Okmulgee, Dan was the beloved son of Leslie and Betty (Davis) Anderson – a couple who instilled in him the values of integrity, kindness and service that would guide his life.
A proud graduate of Okmulgee High School, Class of 1969, Dan went on to further his education at Eastern Oklahoma State College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Ranch Operations – a fitting pursuit for someone who always appreciated hard work, the land and honest living.
For Dan, roots have always mattered. Today, he continues to live on and care for the same family land that has been in the Anderson family since the early 1900s – a beautiful 315acre property just outside of Okmulgee. This land has not only been his home but a part of his life’s work – a place he has carefully tended and cherished, preserving its beauty for future generations.
Dan’s working years reflect the same grit and determination that have shaped his life. In 1973 and 1974, he owned and operated Danny’s Place, a 24-hour café in Okmulgee, serving his community while also working at his parents’ liquor store. It was in 1975 that Dan’s career took another turn. After receiving a small postcard in the mail from Bankers Life and Casualty, Dan tucked it away for two months before picking up the phone to apply for a job. That simple postcard would lead to a successful 15-year career in insurance sales, specializing in Medicaid supplemental policies, health insurance and life insurance building trusted relationships with people across the region.
Alongside his insurance work, Dan also worked on remodeling houses, using his hands and skills to breathe new life into homes – a reflection of his steady and dependable nature.
Dan has always been devoted to his faith and is a faithful member of Dove Ministries in Jenks. His heart for service began young – joining the Lions Club as an “unofficial” member at just 10 years old, following in the footsteps of community- minded family and friends.
He met the love of his life, Kimerly Mangrum, and they built a life together surrounded by family. Dan is a proud father to Mendy Anderson Gonzolas, Kelly Rodriguez and husband Fermin III, Derek Anderson and his wife Jackquelynn. He is also a loving stepfather to Clint Scism and Lacy Scism.
Daniel Anderson is preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Betty Anderson and his brother Kenny Dale Anderson, all of Okmulgee. He is survived by his loving spouse of 25 years, Kimberly Anderson; his three children, Mendy Anderson of Callahan, Colo., Kelly Rodriguez and her husband Fermin Rodriguez III of Slidell, La. and Derek Anderson and his wife Jacquelynn Anderson of Okmulgee; his two stepchildren, Clint Scism and his wife Selena Scism of Morris and Lacy Scism of Okmulgee; his seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; along with his brother, Thomas Anderson and his two children, Chris and Molly Anderson. Dan is a devoted husband, father, a cherished papa and a true friend to all who knew him.
As Dan looks to the future knowing none of us are promised tomorrow – he remains thankful. He is thankful for the land he’s cared for, the work he’s done, the family he loves and the many friends who have surrounded him along the way. Though his earthly journey will one day come to an end, Dan was honored for all to come to his Living Life Celebration not only for the life he has lived but for the impact and legacy he continues to leave with each and every person who has had the blessing of knowing him.
His story is one of faith, family, hard work and a love for the simple but meaningful things in life – a story that will live on for generations.
A living memorial was held Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 1-4 p.m. at Schaudt Okmulgee Funeral Service Chapel.
Arrangements are entrusted to Schaudt Okmulgee Funeral Service & Cremation Care. Condolences may be shared at www.schaudtfuneralservice. com.
