Donald Anderson

Donald A. Anderson, age 86, of Stillwater, passed away on February 21, 2023.

He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Stephanie Karin, and his sisters, Eleanor Anderson and Doris Hollerud. He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, of 45 years, nieces, nephews, and extended family. Don was born in Duluth, MN in 1936 to Swedish immigrant parents. His family soon moved to Hudson, WI where he was raised. He was a graduate of Minnehaha Academy class of 1954. From 1962-1964, Don served in the U.S. Army and earned several marksman badges. He then completed his BA degree at Augsburg College soon after. Following graduation, he was employed by the State of Minnesota as a Program Supervisor for 28 years. Don, with the help of family and friends, hand built his home in West Lakeland. He married Phyllis in 1978. Their daughter Stephanie was born in January of 1983. Over the years, Don had three pet stores in the Twin Cities area. He was knowledgeable in animals of all kinds and an expert with Latin names for tropical fish. He was a fan of sports, enjoyed flower gardening, vegetable gardening, and fishing. He loved animals, puzzles, and gathering with family and friends to play dominoes. He and his wife enjoyed traveling to Florida and Arizona. Don was proud of his Swedish heritage and in 2001 traveled to Sweden with his cousin, Ralph, to meet his relatives. His experiences at Bible Camp, Minnehaha Academy, and service in the U.S. Army strengthened his faith. Bible and seminary courses at Augsburg and Bethel solidified his Christian beliefs. He served the Lord faithfully throughout his years as a Sunday School teacher, Church Chairman, youth leader, and deacon.

He was a member of Oakridge Community Church since 2013. His funeral service will be held at Oakridge Community Church, 610 County Road 5, Stillwater, MN 55082 on March 6 at 11a.m., with visitation 1 hour before. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Lakeland, MN. A lunch will follow at Oakridge Community Church. Memorials may be made to Oakridge Community Church or Minnehaha Academy.