Ivan Dean Andrick

Ivan Dean Andrick was born on July 18, 1929, in Egeland, N.D., the youngest of five children born to Hurb M. and Julia Mae (Nelson) Andrick. He passed away at the age of 87 on Nov. 25, 2016, at Valley Health Care Center in Billings, under the care of RiverStone Hospice.

Ivan grew up and attended school in Cando, N.D. He played football and basketball while in school, as well as working for several years on the Slusser farm.

Ivan was inducted into the U.S. Army in February, 1951, at Fargo, N.D. He spent the majority of his military time at Fort Warden and Fort Lewis Army bases in Washington State, where he played on the Regiment basketball and football teams. He was honorably discharged in February, 1953.

Following his discharge from the Army, Ivan went to work in the oilfields, initially as a roughneck on the rigs, eventually working his way up to management in the oil well servicing companies that he was employed by.

While working on oil rigs in Montana, Ivan met Helen K. Harper in Big Timber, and they were married on May 7, 1955. During their 61 years together, Ivan and Helen spent the first few years at various job sites in Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Nebraska, Utah and Texas, sometimes moving almost at a moment's notice.

In 1962, Ivan's employer moved them overseas, initially to Libya. The majority of their years overseas was in Libya and Saudi Arabia, with time also spent in Scotland and France. Ivan traveled extensively to several other countries while employed by Interairdril. In 1979, they relocated back to the States, living in Riverton and Casper, Wyo.; and Williston, N.D.; before settling in Houston. While living in Houston, Ivan retired, briefly, before going back to work for Pool Well Services for another four-year stint in Oman. Ivan eventually retired for good, living for a period of time in Lindale, Texas, before moving to Billings in 2006. After retirement from the oil business, Ivan spent much of his time involved in the ownership and management of Emerald View Mobile Home Park.

Ivan is survived by his wife, Helen, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Jean Liepke; and brothers Rollie, Dale and Charles. Ivan was a good, loyal friend to his many friends.

Cremation has taken place. No services are planned, per Ivan's request. Memorials may be made to RiverStone Hospice, Valley Health Care Center or a charity of one's choice.