Michael D. Anderson, age 83, of Lonsdale, died at his home after a brief time in hospice on Sunday, September 1, 2024. Mike was born on July 31, 1941, in Fairmont, Minnesota to David and Adeline (Plenge) Anderson. He was active in sports during his high school years and graduated from Fairmont High School in 1959. Following high school he entered the US Navy. It was during his time in the Navy, stationed in California, when he was smitten by a beautiful young woman in a car next to him, while at the local Drive-in. He married her, Dorthea Traylor, on July 7, 1963, in Pt. Mugu, California. They lived in California for a short time following his tour in the Navy, spent another brief period in Minnesota, then Chicago, settled back in the twin cities area while raising their family, and finally settled in Lonsdale. Mike worked as a project manager in computer technology for both Control Data and Cray Research.
Mike had a love of "fast cars", belonging to the Lakesters Car Club in Fairmont, but getting caught drag racing would be the only time in his life that he ever received a ticket! When he was older, his love of fast objects was transferred into building and flying remote control helicopters. He was a member of bowling leagues and card clubs along with his wife. Some of his greatest memories were boating with the family and the camping trips which included Canada and Wisconsin. He made sure he attneded the sporting events they participated in, was a caring listener and a calming influence when asked for advice. Grandchildren brought a whole new level of family love to Mike and he was so very excited to be a great-grandpa, spreading the word of the new arrival long before the news was to be announced!
Mike is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Jenna) Anderson of Minnetonka; daughter, Jennifer Thompson (Luke Morgan) of West Virgina; grandchildren, Krista (Cody) Wallace of Tennessee, Jake Thompson of Bloomington, Alex Anderson of Minnetonka; Great-grandchildren, Hunter, Brayden, Brody, & Oaklee Wallace; sister, Kay Giles of Plymouth; brother, Tom Anderson of Prior Lake. He is preceded in death by his wife, Dorthea on November 4, 2022; his parents.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home with Chaplain Greg Gilbert officiating. Visitation will take place 2 hours prior from 5-7 PM. Burial will occur Tuesday morning at 9:30 at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery where military honors will be provided.
