Donald "Donnie" J. Anderson

Donald “Donnie” J. Anderson Age 87, of East Bethel, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on May 13, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with COPD.

Following his high school graduation, he began working at Scott Atwater building go-carts. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1961 in the Aero Medical Evacuation Squadron. After his honorable discharge, he worked at Forest Lake Memorial Hospital.

He married the love of his life, Sherri, on October 19, 1963, and they were happily married for over six decades. Together they were blessed with two children, Nick and Traci, along with their spouses, Carmen and Dan. His family grew to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy.

He served his community faithfully as a member of the East Bethel Volunteer Fire Department from 1962 to 1986, holding the roles of Chief and Assistant Chief for many of those years.

His work history was as varied as it was impressive. He worked in industrial construction, including bridge building (1963–64), was a tugboat operator for Minnesota Dredge (1964–65), and worked in heavy equipment operations for Dietrich Construction (1965–74). From 1974 to 1987, he owned and operated Don’s Burner Service and Anderson Dragline. Later, he worked for the City of Ham Lake as the Building Official and Zoning Administrator from 1987 until his retirement in 2000.

After retiring, he returned to what he called “playing in the dirt,” enjoying hands-on projects and equipment work. He had many interests and the skills to pursue them all. He loved people—and people loved being around him.

Alongside Sherri, he helped provide a welcoming home over the years, opening their downstairs apartment as a temporary residence for many. He was always willing to lend a hand, teach, or share his equipment and knowledge with sons, grandsons, and friends. A generous and thoughtful man, he was also instrumental in building the metal portion of the OSLC bell tower in his shop.

He enjoyed traveling with family and friends and had a heart for giving - of both his time and his wisdom as well as his monetary gifts. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Art and Hildur; and siblings, Clarence, Gene, Kenneth “Bud,” and Carolyn “Sis.”

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon “Sherri”; children, Nick (Carmen) and Traci (Dan); grandchildren, Justin (Jenni), Briana, Tyler, Paige, Mitch (Amber), Nate (Addison), Luke (Kayli); great-grandchildren, Blayke, Grayson, Sydney, Caleb, and Macy; as well as many nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 19001 Jackson Street NE, East Bethel. Visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, prior to the service. Burial at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Cemetery in Ham Lake, Minnesota.