Kenneth L. Anderson, 85 of Buffalo Lake, died Monday, May 11, 2020 at The Waters of Highland Park in St. Paul. To celebrate Kenneth Anderson’s life (also known as Mr. A., Mayor, Kenny, Dad), in a pandemic, we are having a drive up “reception” of sorts. You are welcome to drive up to the Agriculture room on the East side of the Buffalo Lake school, located at 211 3rd Street N.E., Friday 5/15 between 6-730pm. His children and their families will be there to wave, hear a story about Kenneth, and accept verbal condolence. If you can put a story about Kenneth in writing that will add comfort to the families. Please stay in your cars to help with social distancing. No memorials necessary. If you feel inclined, all memorial gifts will be donated to the FFA, which he loved and dedicate much of his life. A private family graveside service will be held at Crow River Cemetery near Belgrade. Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Belgrade.
Kenneth (Ken) Lowell Anderson was born May 20, 1934, in Belgrade, MN, the son of Helen (Jacobson) and J. Alfred Anderson and the youngest of five children. He was baptized and confirmed as a member of Crow River Lutheran Church. Ken grew up on the homestead farm of the Helen Jacobson family, in Kandiyohi County. He attended Belgrade High School and graduated in 1952. After high school, he attended the University of Minnesota St Paul Campus where he studied agriculture and education. Following college, he moved to Buffalo Lake and took a job as an agriculture teacher. On August 7th, 1960, Ken was united in marriage to Janet Eidem at Zoar Lutheran Church in Marietta. The couple made their home in Buffalo Lake. As an active member of the community, he was involved in a variety of organizations. In addition to 33 years of teaching for the Buffalo Lake Schools, he was a leader in FFA and school board activities for decades. He also served as Mayor of Buffalo Lake along with owning/operating a restaurant (Char-Ket) and several different businesses including: Country at Heart Antique Store, an auctioneering business (Tri-A Auctions) and a seasonal Christmas tree lot. During retirement, he remained an active volunteer and promoter of the Buffalo Lake community and region. Whether through his support of the schools, the city farmer’s market, activities at Zion Lutheran Church and with his neighbors, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Janet Eidem, after 45 years of marriage in 2005. After her death, he remained wildly independent for as long as possible until his health required a move to St Paul for assisted living support. He made quick friends with all the staff and residents of The Waters of Highland Park where he became known for a quick smile and a welcoming conversation. Being in St Paul allowed him to be closer to his daughter, Heidi, and her family during these last few years. Throughout his life, he never wavered on his support of the Twins, Vikings and Gophers. Ken is survived by his two children and their families who he always was eager and proud to share their accomplishments. Son, Kent and his wife, Tammy, live in Cordova, Tennessee, with grandchildren, John Anderson and Kathryn Anderson. Daughter, Heidi, and husband, Marc, live in St Paul, with grandchildren, Emma and Eleanor Isaacson. Ken is also survived by his sister, Shirley Swenson, of Lakeville; along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Janet, Ken was preceded in death by his son, Jason Blair Anderson, and brothers: Wilbur, LaVern, and Virgil Anderson.
Cards may be sent to daughter, Heidi Anderson- Isaacson1 at 964 Juliet Ave St. Paul, MN 55105
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