Donna Anderson

Donna M. Anderson, 75, of Alexandria passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at Alexandria Assisted Living (AAL) after a long journey through Alzheimer’s.  The family would like to thank the amazing, caring, and loving staff at AAL for their compassion and kindness.

Donna Mae was born October 3, 1945 to Walter and Mae Gunderson.  Donna spoke fondly of her childhood and the fun she had growing up in the 1950s!  She graduated from Duluth East High School in 1963. Donna married her husband, Rene, in 1968 and they were blessed with 52 years of marriage.  She worked part time at Charm Beauty Salon in Duluth before opening her own Beauty Shop (Country Cuts & Curls) in her home in 1981. Her main focus, however, was taking care of her family.  Donna loved to decorate and had a knack for making the everyday beautiful and special; even fruit from a can was served on a fancy dish with flowers on the table.  She loved to create works of art including acrylic and watercolor painting, stained glass, and flower gardens.  Her artwork will remain a cherished blessing for friends and family. Donna enjoyed participating in many activities and sports; Community Bible Study, card and art groups, volleyball, cross-country skiing, swimming, and golf (she did have a “perfect swing.”).  A favorite tradition at Christmas time, for over 30 years, was sharing a whole week at Breezy Point with her family, and Donna’s holiday decorations made it even more special.

In 1992, Donna and Rene ‘retired’ to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas where she quickly became active in the local Community Bible Study and the Village Bible Church where she sang in the choir.  For 20 years, Donna and Rene were able to enjoy 6 months in Arkansas and the other 6 months in Minnesota.  Donna enjoyed these years connecting with friends (old and new), working at a variety of jobs, pursuing her art, and helping her family.

Donna will be remembered for her strong faith, her encouraging letters and prayers, her servant heart, and her helping hands that added beauty to all she touched.  She leaves to us a legacy of great faith, love of family, and a willingness to put others before self.

Donna is survived by her husband, Rene Anderson of Alexandria; children, Lynn (Greg) Peterson of Duluth, MN, Kurt (Rachel) Anderson of Douglas, Nebraska, and Kristine (Kyle) Kirkeby of Ortonville, MN; 5 grandchildren, Wesley, Mallorie, Gretta, Derek, and Sara; sister, Jo Ann (Winton) Zagrabelny of Casper, WY, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Preceding Donna in death were her parents; brothers, Wally, Lester, Bud, Gordy and infant sister, Dorothy Mae Gunderson.

There will be a Private Family Service on December 4 at Messiah Church, Hoffman, MN with Pastor Mark Mathews officiating.  The family invites you to participate by viewing the recorded service and video tribute, and to leave your stories and memories of Donna on the tribute wall at https://www.ericksonsmithfh.com/obituary/Donna-Anderson

Burial at Lands Cemetery in the spring with friends and family.