Harold A. Andresen

Harold A. Andresen, 88, of Chadwick, Illinois, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2025 at Allure Nursing Center of Mt. Carroll, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, generosity, and devotion to both community and land.

Born on January 10, 1937 in York Township, Carroll County, Harold was the son of Jens D. and Irene (Geisz) Andresen. He grew up with the values that would define his life—hard work, humility, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. A 1955 graduate of Chadwick High School, Harold excelled early in public speaking, participating in school plays, and FFA speaking contests. His ability to communicate with sincerity and confidence became one of his lifelong strengths.

Following high school, Harold attended Midwestern Broadcasting School in Chicago, beginning his career as a radio announcer in Platteville, Wisconsin. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marilyn “Kay” Bellmeyer. Harold was drafted into the United States Army on February 2, 1959, and later that same year, on August 14, 1959, he and Kay were united in marriage—a partnership of deep devotion that would last 57 years, until Kay’s passing.

Harold and Kay spent the early months of their marriage in Germany before returning home to Illinois, settling on the Andresen family farm near Chadwick. Together, they raised four children and demonstrated extraordinary commitment as parents, especially in the loving and exceptional care they provided for their sons Randy and Rodney, who lived courageously with muscular dystrophy.

Harold farmed near Chadwick his entire adult life, retiring at the remarkable age of 80. His dedication to agriculture extended far beyond his own fields. He was a generous supporter of youth and education throughout Carroll County, giving through the Andresen Memorial Scholarship and later the Andresen Ag Scholarship. He remained a devoted 4-H supporter and could be found at the 4-H Fair’s live auction year after year, joyfully bidding on champion pigs and encouraging the next generation of agricultural leaders.

A gifted woodworker, Harold created countless handmade items for family, friends, his church, and the Chadwick library—each piece crafted with care, skill, and love. He was also proudly loyal to Case IH, appreciated antique Farmall tractors, and delighted in participating in local tractor parades.

Harold will be dearly missed by his daughter, Pam (Paul) Slagh of Grandville, Michigan; his son, Alan Andresen of Lanark; his grandchildren, Brett Slagh, Dylan (Kira Mason) Slagh, and Stephen Andresen; and his sister, Darlene Hogan of Farmington, Maine.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay; and their sons, Randy (1984) and Rodney (1985), who both passed away at the age of 23 due to complications of muscular dystrophy.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chadwick. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, at the church, and also one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will follow at Chadwick Cemetery. Military honors will be presented by the American Legion.

Harold lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. His influence will be felt for generations, and his memory will be treasured always.