Donald R. Anderson (Don), age 80, died on August 27, 2025 at his home in Osceola, WI.

Don was born on July 29, 1945 in Thief River Falls, MN, to parents Victor and Thelma (Kolden) Anderson. He graduated from Middle River High School. After high school, Don attended Business College in Grand Forks, ND. Don accepted a job in Seattle, WA. He served in the U.S. Army from 1965 -1968. After the Army he worked as a controller for a manufacturing company in Minneapolis, controller for a printing company, and was CEO of CU Companies.

Don and Darlene (Gerrish) married in 1965. They have one child Bobbi. They made their homes in Seattle, WA, Minneapolis, Spring Lake Park, and Arden Hills, MN. After retirement, they moved to St. Croix Falls, WI and later to Osceola, WI. They built a vacation home in Mission, TX and enjoyed time there off and on for six years until Don started facing heath issues.

Don loved fishing with Dar and their dogs at Crow Lake, Ontario, Canada. He became an avid wood turner after retirement. Don and Dar were fortunate to travel to many places, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in Paris, France. Don was also a member of the American Legion, served as a Honor Guard at Fort Snelling National Cemetery while stationed at the Army base there, served on the Board of Directors for Twin City Co-op Credit Union, Board of Festival Theatre in St. Croix Falls, served as a councilman for the city of St. Croix Falls. He also volunteered with Minnesota Sheltie Rescue for several years.

Don’s family and friends describe him as a kind and very caring person. He had the best smile for everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by many.

Don is survived by his wife, Darlene (Dar); daughters, Bobbi (Cheryl Krystek); sisters, Pat Swan, Maxine (Micky) Monson, Juneve Givers and Wanda Johaneson; brother, Calvin (Cal); sisters-in-law, Jan Anderson and Diane Gerrish Heskin (Doug); many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Thelma; brother, Robert (Bob); brothers-in-law, Bob Swan, David Givers and Ed Monson; nephews, Casey Johaneson, Tom Monson, Brain Swan and Erik Heskin; niece, Lisa Swan; our Norwegian exchange student, Janne Stiansen.

Our family is thankful for the care and kindness of all the St. Croix Hospice caregivers. He looked forward to the visits, especially Robin and Lexi, as they saw him almost every day. Truly they are a gift from God. Also we are thankful for the many visits from family and friends during his final days.

Last Update: Sep 01, 2025 9:39 am CDT