Roy Anderson

Roy W. Anderson, age 94, passed from this world to his eternal home on November 20, 2016 at Lakewood Health System Care Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Newell Anderson, two infant brothers, in-laws Ray and Annie France, and sister-in-law, Mickey Swanson.
He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 72 years, Norma, 2 daughters and spouses, Terry Stolhanske (Dennis), of New Hope, and Toni Case (Doug) of Staples, 5 grandchildren, Kristie Thorson (Erik), Lisa Kennedy (Mike), Trevor Stolhanske, Michael Case, and Aaron Case (Diana), 7 great-grandchildren, and brother-in-law Walter France (Edwena), of Atlanta, GA.
Roy was born on a farm near Verndale on November 7, 1922. He attended school in Verndale and graduated in 1942. He joined the Army Air Force in 1943 and served 3 years during World War II. While home on leave he met Norma France of Staples and fell madly in love. After a six week courtship, they were married in Great Bend, Kansas in 1944. He always said the hardest point in his life was to leave Norma and return to military service in the South Pacific. After he was honorably discharged in 1946, Roy returned to his waiting bride and built her a house in Staples where they lived throughout their life. He was employed by the Northern Pacific/Burlington Northern Railroad where he worked for 40 years as a switchman. He was known around the railyards as "Handy Andy".
Roy was a deeply devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed building, repairing, and puttering in his garage and yard, volunteering at church, and showing off his dancing skills. He loved traveling and shared many memorable road trips and cruises with family and friends. He had a wonderful ability to communicate and connect with others, winning smiles and new friends wherever he went. He will be fondly remembered for his great sense of humor, zest for life, generosity, and great love for his family and friends.
Memorial services will be 1PM, Monday, December 5, 2016 at Staples United Methodist Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to services beginning at 12N. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.