Kenneth “Ken” Anderson

9thKenneth N. “Ken” Anderson – Rochester

Kenneth Norman Anderson, 90, of Rochester, MN died Friday, October 25, 2024 at Homestead Assisted Living in Rochester.

Ken was born February 4, 1934 in Virginia, MN to Melvin and Hazel (Nelson) Anderson.  He graduated from Virginia High School in 1952, and from the University of Minnesota (St. Paul) with a degree in forestry in 1956.  He worked for 35 years as a forester for the Minnesota DNR, and afterwards did private forestry and land management consulting.  Ken was also a volunteer firefighter.  On June 13, 1959 he married Carol A. Anderson in St. Cloud, MN.  The couple lived in Virginia MN, Faribault MN, Orr MN, and settled in Rochester in 1969.

Ken loved fishing and hunting, especially out in the colors of fall.  He could build many things with his hands.  He could carve animals, especially birds in a very artistic manner.  He knew all about different models and characteristics of cars.  He was a gifted marksman, winning amateur competitions and medals in matches and tournaments at the University of Minnesota.  He had extensive knowledge of and love for nature, trees, ecology, and the interrelationship of science and the environment.

Ken served as a Captain in the Unties States Army Reserves (artillery) from 1956-1964, mostly in Oklahoma.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, son Michael (Candy Van Houweling Anderson) of Waukee, Iowa, and son Timothy and Nancy Forman Anderson of Lake Frederick, VA, and two grandsons, Jeremy and Kyle Anderson.  He is also survived by his sister Nancy Anderson Helgeson and preceded in death by his brother Roger Anderson.

The memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM Friday November 15 with a graveside memorial and burial at Calvary Cemetery presided by Father Luis Vargas.  A luncheon at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Rochester will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations are preferred to the family for later distribution.