Russell A. Anderson, 88, peacefully passed away at home on Thursday, April 23, 2015 in Scandinavia, WI.
He was one of five sons of the late Alfred and Nora (Voie) Anderson, born on April 3, 1927 in Stetsonville, Wisconsin. On September 9, 1950, Russell married Doris M. Thompson. He began early his life-long passion of learning and hard work from his parents on the home farm in Scandinavia. He spoke proudly and often of being taught his more formal lessons in the one-room Elm Valley and Torgerson Schools before attending Scandinavia High School, graduating in 1945. Russell was a man of ability and had many talents. After high school, Russell stayed home to assist his parents on their farm before following his three older brothers and enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably until discharged in 1949. After his discharge and before his marriage, he worked at the Scandinavia Creamery. In 1951 he purchased his own business and hauled milk for six years. In 1957 he sold his business and adventured with his wife and two small sons to the State of Washington, where he worked and lived for six months. Their time in Washington was brief due to the untimely death of a family member requiring Russell and Doris to return to Scandinavia to assume the responsibilities of operating Doris’s parents’ family farm on Elm Valley Road, Scandinavia. There they made their home, farmed, and raised their family. In addition to farming full time, Russell could be relied upon to answer the call for assistance. He enjoyed utilizing his carpenter skills with the Johnson Construction Company and working as a part time rural carrier with the United States Postal Service, retiring at the age of 80. In addition to his work and family, he made time to serve his community as a Trustee for the Town of Scandinavia, and Elder of the Scandinavia Lutheran Church as well as a volunteer Fire Fighter for the Scandinavia Fire Department. He also supported the Scandinavia Booster Club and the Scandinavia Viking Baseball Team.
Russell is survived by his two children, Kent (Robin) Anderson and Kay (David L. Forsythe) Anderson, all of Scandinavia, and a daughter-in-law, Lori Anderson of Iola. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Sarah (Satish) Cherian, Exton, PA; Paul Anderson, Mantorville, MN; Michael Anderson, Manawa, WI; Amanda Anderson, Iola, WI; Kirsten Anderson, Eau Claire, WI and Andrea (Daniel) Jacobson, Eau Claire, WI; seven great-grandchildren, and Molly, his constant canine companion. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Doris M. Anderson and his son, Keith R. Anderson, his parents, and three brothers, Philip, Elwood (Red), and Alfred, Jr. His younger brother, Sidney, passed on April 23, 2015 in Minnesota. Russell will be long remembered for his youthful spirit and love of life. He valued hard work, family, community, and friendships.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday April 30, 2015 at 11 a.m. at the Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca. Pastor Dale Wilson will officiate with burial to follow at the Scandinavia Lutheran Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Wednesday April 29, 2015 from 4 until 7 p.m. at the Holly Funeral Home and again on Thursday at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.