Gene Anderson

Gene Anderson, 84, of Strandquist, MN, died on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in Kittson Memorial Health Care Center of Hallock, MN.

Gene Victor was born on November 20, 1939, in Hallock, to Carl S. and Anna O. (Knutson) Anderson. His middle name was from his father's eldest brother, still living in Sweden. He was raised in Lake Bronson, MN, and graduated from its high school in 1957. From an early age Gene learned to love hard work and animals. As a boy, he trapped weasels and mink and hunted wild geese. He had a special appreciation for horses, breaking in many over the years. His whole life long, Gene worked the land, tended to God's creation, and gave his horses and cattle what they needed to thrive. As a husband and father, Gene could be strict, but whatever firmness he had was tempered by his soft touch when needed. He enjoyed large jobs (like hauling hay, cattle, and horses) just as much as he enjoyed the simple things (like putting on his cowboy hat and boots and going for a drive).

Gene was united in Holy Matrimony to his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Chwialkowski, on October 15, 1958. After they settled on her family's homestead, they lived there the remaining 58 years of their marriage, raising five children and watching their family grow. Gene enjoyed going to the Newfolden Senior center, attending Mass at St. Edward's on Sundays with his wife, and working together with her side-by-side on the farm. Phyllis died on March 8, 2017, and Gene missed her and talked about her every day until his last.

He is survived by his children, Vicky (the late Bryce) Hanson of Saginaw, MN, Laura (Walter) Kostrzewski of Strandquist, Sheri (the late Tim) Lewis of Newfolden, MN, Sue (the late Tom Kazmierczak) Anderson of Karlstad, MN, and Carl (Missy) Anderson of Strandquist; eight grandchildren, Josh, Kent, Amanda, Emily, Matt, Luke, Lyndsey, and Logan;  fourteen great-grandchildren, Kenzie, Karter, Cam, Case, Braxtyn, Bentlee, Addi, Quinn, Freya, Emberleigh, Colesyn, Lola, Josee and Iyra two great-great grandchildren Daisy and Lee; and sister, Elaine Baker; and sister-in-law, Rita Chwialkowski.

In addition to his wife, Gene was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Duane; three sons-in-law; granddaughter, Krista Anderson; great-grandchildren, Jared, Jonathan, and Jessica; and brothers-in-law, Harvey Baker and Ted Chwialkowski.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 11:00 AM, in St. Edward Catholic Church, Karlstad, MN.
VISITATION: One hour to Mass.
ROSARY: Beginning at 10:00 AM.
INTERMENT: In the Spring, St. Edward Catholic Cemetery of Strandquist, MN.