Donald Anderson

Donald G. Anderson, 71, lifelong resident of Detroit Lakes, died Tuesday, July 1, 2015 at Ecumen-The Cottages in Detroit Lakes. Funeral Service will be held Saturday, July 11 at 11AM in United Methodist Church, Detroit Lakes. Visitation will be held Friday, July 10 at David Donehower Funeral Home from 5PM-7PM with a 7PM Prayer Service. Visitation will also continue at the church one hour prior to services on Saturday. Interment will be held in Holmesville Cemetery, rural Detroit Lakes. Donald Garrett Anderson was born July 13, 1943 in Detroit Lakes to Raymond and Marian (McDowell) Anderson. He graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1961. Following school he farmed with his Dad. In 1965, Don enlisted with the North Dakota Air National Guard "The Happy Hooligans" retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant after serving his country for 28 years. On June 5, 1971, Don was united in marriage to Joyce Nelson. They resided in Detroit Lakes, where Don was employed for 32 years at Minnesota State Community and Technical College as a snowmobile and outdoor power instructor. In 1980, he was nominated for MN Teacher of the Year. While teaching at the Vo-Tech, he attended Bemidji State University attaining a Bachelor of Science degree. Don was an accomplished mechanic and immersed himself with anything mechanical. From 1963 to 1969 Don designed, constructed, and raced various drag racing vehicles resulting many wins at local dragstrips. From 1970 through 1976 he competitively built and raced modified snowmobiles within the United States Snowmobile Association. In the late 70's he got into tractor pulling. Finding his true passion, Don built from scratch three tractors and formed what is still known today as the "Blue Ox Team". He enjoyed a very successful career in tractor pulling winning 11 Red River Tractor Pullers Association point championships and also a top 10 Grand National points finish in 2004. Don kept busy at the shop, but he always had time for others. He was a mentor, a friend, and a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

Don is survived by his loving family, son: Daniel (Kristy) Anderson of Audubon, MN, daughter: Bethany (David) Ustanko of Fargo, ND, three grandchildren: Carter and Camryn Anderson and Katrina Ustanko. He is also survived by one brother: Doug (Kathy) Anderson of Brentwood, TN along with nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and wife, Joyce (2009).

Funeral Home: David Donehower Funeral Home 609 Hwy 10 East Detroit Lakes, MN US 56501

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Previous Events

Visitation
Friday, July 10, 2015
Service
Saturday, July 11, 2015

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