Denise Andersen

Denise Gale Andersen, 62, of Climax, Michigan passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025. She was born on September 27, 1962, in Kentucky, but made Climax her lifelong home. 

Denise was married to her beloved husband, Kenneth Andersen, for 45 years. Together they built a family that she cherished deeply. She is survived by her children, Amanda Andersen, and Jesse (Rachel) Andersen; and her grandchildren Cory and Matthew Knowles, and Taylor, Avery, and Kendall Andersen who lovingly knew her as “Memaw.” Denise also leaves behind her siblings, Debbie (Rick) Stuck, Dawn Keller, and Dan (Jane) Reschner; as well her much-loved sister-in-law Debbie Hitchings, and her close lifelong friend Barbie. Denise’s legacy also lives on in her many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin Reschner, and Leona Slaughter. 

Denise was known as a hardworking and dedicated woman. She worked at Canteen for many years, and also spent time working at Arlene’s Truck Stop, and the local Village Take Out, where she was loved by all who knew her.

She lived life to the fullest and found joy in the simple pleasures-tubing with family at Coldbrook Park, cheering on friends and family at the Galesburg Speedway, cooking, and canning the harvest from her garden. Her white chocolate chip cookies were legendary. She had a knack for finding joy in the little things and passed that sense of fun along to her grandchildren, whom she delighted in spoiling.

Denise lived her life authentically, with courage and conviction. She always spoke her mind, stood up for what she believed in, and fiercely loved those close to her. Though her time came too soon, she left this world on her own terms—just as she lived every day of her life.

A Celebration of Life will take place at the American Legion in Climax, on Saturday, September 6th from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm with a short prayer service beginning at 1:00. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you reach out with a memory, story, or picture of Denise as a way to honor a life well lived, and well loved.