Ann Eleanor Anderson, 83

Published 7:01 am Saturday, March 28, 2020

Ann Eleanor Anderson, 83, of rural Geneva, Minnesota, peacefully left this world while surrounded by her husband and children, on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.

Ann was born on Oct. 29, 1936, to parents Anhart and Ina (Hjelman) Hansen, in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. She graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1955 and went on to study hairdressing at Austin Area Vocational School, graduating with a certificate of Hairdressing and Beauty Culture in 1956. She worked as a beautician for five years in Rochester, Minnesota, and West Concord, Minnesota.

Ann Eleanor Anderson, 83

On Sept. 4, 1959, Ann married Dale L. Anderson in Rochester. Shortly after, they relocated to Geneva Township, where they spent many years farming and raising a family. Together they raised five children.

She was happiest when she was surrounded by family. She never stopped moving; she kept busy with all the jobs needed to take care of her family. She loved spending time outdoors, reading and baking for her family and friends when they visited. Ann made every holiday memorable and special. She always cared more about her guests than herself—that was just Ann. Neighbors, family, and friends looked forward to the cookies, bars, homemade jams and pickles. Ann’s garden brought so much joy to her and she always shared her bounty – no one could leave her house without her offering something from her garden.

Over the years she contributed many hours to her church, Community Lutheran in Geneva. She served in women’s groups and taught her children the importance of service through volunteering with Luther League. Most recently, she volunteered with the quilting group. Ann’s faith was important to her and the way she moved through the world proved it. Ann was beyond selfless; she loved and cared for everyone she met. Ann was simply the best wife, mother, and grandmother.

Ann is survived by her husband, Dale; children, Sue Anderson of Rochester, Nancy (Mike) DeBeau of Blooming Prairie, Scott Anderson of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Doug Anderson of Blooming Prairie and Sara (Jason) Lanick of Minneapolis; grandchildren, Austin, Meadow and Anderson; four brothers; six sisters; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Axel and Dean Hansen; and sister, Jeanette Underwood.

Memorial service will be announced at a later date.