Merle Wallace Anderson, 79, passed away after a courageous, four-year battle with cancer on Feb. 15, 2012, surrounded by his family.

Merle was born June 2, 1932, in Wanda, Minn., to Jenetta Rix and Arnold Anderson. As a young child, Merle attended school and grew up in Sleepy Eye, Minn. He served in the Army during the Korean War. On June 4, 1955, he married Madge Moen in Austin, Minn. The couple made their home on a farm near Dexter. Merle worked at Hormel in Austin and retired after 30 years. They lived in Bloomington for several years, then moved to Merrifield where they currently reside. Merle was a member of the American Legion and Cross Lake Lutheran Church. Survivors include his beloved wife, Madge; children, Scott (Sharon) Anderson of Minnetonka, Tim (Sue) Anderson of Minnetonka, and Kathy Barbieri of Harrison, N.Y.; grandchildren, Stephanie, Eric, Jake, and Beau; sister, Carol (Bill) York-Critchley; brothers, T.D. Anderson, Arlen (Irene) Shires, Gary Shires, Dick (Erma) Anderson, and Larry Anderson; loving black lab, Callie. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Ashton and parents. Merle enjoyed life immensely. He spent a great amount of time enjoying sports, fishing and hunting with family and friends. Merle especially enjoyed the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. His wonderful smile will be remembered forever. A special thanks to Methodist Hospice Care for their wonderful support during this difficult time. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, at Oak Knoll Lutheran Church, 600 Hopkins Cross Rd., Minnetonka, MN 55305 with visitation one hour prior at church. Visitation also from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel West 50th St. and Highway 100, 952-920-3996.