John David Anderson

John David Anderson, age 73, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of his wife, Robin. In so many ways, Robin became his devoted caretaker, making sure he enjoyed his spa treatments, ate hearty meals, and felt loved and cared for until the very end.

John was born and raised in Wahpeton, North Dakota, the second of five children born to Jack and MaryAnn Anderson. He grew up alongside his siblings, Rick, Nancy, Donna, and Julie, building the family connections that remained important throughout his life.

John graduated from Wahpeton High School with the class of 1971 and went on to attend NDSCS, where he studied drafting and design. With their careers ahead of them, John and Fran moved to Colorado Springs to work for Cap Homes. During this time, John, Fran, and Larry shared a home and formed lifelong friendships that endured long after their time in Colorado.

While living in Colorado, John married Deb in 1979 in a beautiful ceremony held in the rose gardens at Deb’s childhood family home. Together, they welcomed three children, Jacob, Lucas, and Meghan. After opportunities brought them to Dickinson, North Dakota, the young family eventually settled in Forest Lake, Minnesota, where John and Deb raised their children and built a home filled with family, love, and memories. Deb passed away in 2007.

In 2012, John married Robin in a beautiful ceremony at their home in Forest Lake, beginning a new chapter filled with love and companionship. Through their marriage, Robin’s children, Michael, David, and Katie, joined the family, along with her parents, David and Janet Wiley. As the years passed, the family continued to grow, welcoming grandchildren Alexandra, Piper, Mirabelle, Barton, Audra, Mason, Nolan, Jack, and Levi, each bringing John another reason to smile.

John found joy in the things that made life special. He was a Minnesota sports fan, enjoyed creating his beloved wooden characters, and loved attending craft fairs and going fishing. He treasured relaxing on the porch, celebrating Anderson Christmas and the Fourth of July, and spending time with his little buddy, Pumpkin.

Outgoing and comically funny, John had a way of making people laugh and feel welcome. He was a hard worker, a kind man, and someone who deeply valued his family. He coached all three of his children in various sports as they grew up, creating memories and sharing in their experiences along the way. Above all, John loved his family and cherished the time they spent together.

John will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. His humor, kindness, dedication, and love for his family leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

John is survived by his loving wife, Robin Anderson; his children, Jacob (Kassy), Lucas (Molly) Anderson, Meghan (Joel) Chapin, Michael Bigelow, David Bigelow, and Katie (Greg) Klingelhutz; his nine grandchildren, Alexandra, Piper, Mirabelle, Barton, Audra, Mason, Nolan, Jack, and Levi; and his siblings, Rick Anderson, Nancy Nowacki, Donna (Earl) Samuelson, and Julie (Doug) Arvin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and MaryAnn Anderson; his wife, Deb Anderson; his niece, Heather Chlebik; his sister-in-law, Kathy Anderson; and his brother-in-law, Brent Nowacki.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the wonderful staff at Suite Living and Ecumen Hospice who cared for John during his final months. The compassion, respect, and kindness shown by both teams helped John remain comfortable and pass with dignity. Their care and support brought comfort to John and his family during a difficult time, and they will always be remembered with gratitude.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM, on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, MN 55025.  Family will be greeting friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Forest Lake Area Community Scholarship Foundation, Ecumen Hospice, or Allina Health Cancer Institute. 

John’s life was filled with family, laughter, friendship, and love. Though he will be missed beyond words, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.