Andrea L. Ganrude
Saturday, July 29, 1950
Date of Death:
Sunday, January 12, 2025
Age:
74 years old
Andrea L. Ganrude
Andrea Lea Ganrude, 74, of Rochester, MN, died Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Madonna Towers Skilled Care.
Andrea was born July 29, 1950, in Rochester, MN to Odin and Ann Ganrude. She graduated from John Marshall High School in 1967, attend Rochester Community College and received a BA in Spanish from Ripon College in 1971. She applied for the Peace Corps and was located in Brazil, in a small fishing village assigned to Community Development from June of 1972 through June of 1974. Returning to Minnesota, Andrea enrolled in an MA Program at Mankato State University in Urban/Regional Studies with an emphasis in Human Services Planning – fulfilling the program in 1978. She continued with Dodge-Fillmore-Olmsted Community Corrections in Rochester, MN and then employed by Region 10 as a Criminal Justice Planner.
For the next 31 to 33 years, she would work at Olmsted County as a Program Evaluator in the Department of Corrections, Social Services, and Health. Her endeavor would be for the betterment of people addressed in the programs. She retired from Olmsted County in August 2013.
Andrea’s interests included; reading, boating, swimming, volleyball, baking, winter activities, sewing, hardanger, cardmaking, painting, beading, travel, enjoyment with friends, sharing talents, and relaxing in Florida, her home away from home.
She is survived by her sister “Deb” Ganrude of Rochester, MN. She is preceded in death by her mother, brother, and father.
Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2025, with visitation 1 hour before at Zumbro Lutheran Church with Pastor Tim Rotman officiating.
The family suggests memorials be designated to Three Rivers Community Action and International Owl Center.
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Condolences
The family of Andrea L. Ganrude has received the following condolences.
Dear Debbie,
We were so very saddened to hear of Andreas passing. You have our deepest condolences. There just are no adequate words at a time like this.
It's so hard to believe that all these years have passed. I have such fond memories of my times together with Andrea and your family!! The days of when neighbors really knew each other and got together. Andrea's hearty, warm laughter still rings in my ears.
May God bring you peace and comfort during these difficult days. I am sad that I was not able to attend the service. Hugs to you, Debbie.
Nancy
Deb, my heart goes out to you in the loss of your dear sister, Andrea. As you know, I was a co-worker of Andrea’s for many years at Public Health. I will always remember Andrea for her kindness toward all and her generosity. I honestly never heard her say an unkind word about anyone. If you were fortunate to be her “I Care” person at work during the week of Valentines Day(as I was), you received thoughtful and lovely gifts, which I still have & use. Andrea was a member of my book club up until she was no longer able to participate due to her health. She always donated to the “adopt a family” program that our book club sponsored, right up through this past Christmas. A few years ago she additionally donated her entire collection of beanie babies to this same program that supports young mothers and their children. She recognized co-workers with beautifully handcrafted birthday cards. These are just a few examples of her generosity.
Andrea made the world a better place through her work and through the life she led and will be missed.
Deb, I was saddened to see the news of Andrea's passing. I remember those boat rides and hiking around in the woods long ago. She was a quiet giant. She did so much with her life. I know you will miss her. Please know you are in my prayers!
Judy Peck
Deb. I worked with Andrea at Region 10. We played volleyball together. We lost touch over the years but I remember her as passionate about serving the disadvantaged. I was just thinking about her the other day as I drove down Third Avenue and her house she bought. I’m sorry for your loss and hope your fond memories of her will bring you comfort in the days ahead. Sisters have a special bond. She spoke of you often.
Deb, I am so sorry for your loss of your sister Andrea.
Please be taking especially good care of yourself as this new normal unfolds.
With shared love,
Jerry Porter