We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Sigurd J. Anderson at his home at The Waters in Rochester on Saturday, February 8, 2025.  He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elsiemae, son Marlyn, son Kevin (Linda), 3 grandchildren, son Steven (Melissa), 2 step grandchildren, and 3 step great grandchildren.

Sigurd was born on December 11, 1933 in Houston, MN and grew up with his 3 brothers on the family farm.  We enjoyed hearing stories of brotherly competitions and other hijinks, usually as a means of avoiding chores.   After surviving polio in high school, he enlisted in the Navy, serving his country with honor and commitment. After military service, he pursued higher education and graduated from St Olaf College and the University of Minnesota, establishing a foundation for a lifelong career in education.

His career as an educator began as a teacher of physics and culminated in his role as Superintendent of Schools, serving the Kasson-Mantorville school district from 1972 to 1991.   Ultimately, he was recognized as an Administrator of Excellence by the Minnesota Association of School Administrators.

But in addition to the typical duties of a school administrator, Sigurd delighted in classroom teaching, acting as head custodian, fixing scoreboards, mowing football fields, ensuring all manner of athletic and musical events were staged successfully, and venturing out in snowstorms to determine if conditions warranted cancellation of school for the day.

Meanwhile, the summers were filled with family activities.  Camping trips to destinations near and far were full of adventure and created a lifetime of fond memories. Visits to the family farms provided ample opportunities to enjoy farm life as well as the strengthening of family ties. Naturally, frequent trips to the golf course were a special part of every summer.

He was active in his communities and was a member of the church choir.  You could find him cooking potatoes and tending the lefse grills at many a lutefisk supper.  Of course, he devised his own method and tools for making sure every piece of lefse was the correct size for the grill.

Upon retirement, Sigurd and Elsiemae moved to their lake home in Crosslake, MN.  Still an avid golfer and tinkerer, Sigurd continued to find joy in perfecting his latest "new swing" and working on a never-ending list of projects in his workshop.  They also enjoyed travels to Norway, Alaska, and Hawaii, as well as spending many winters in Texas and Alabama.

Known for his wit and humor, Sig was always quick with a quip, bringing smiles and laughter to those around him.  He will be dearly missed by family and friends, but his legacy of dedication, humor, and love will be remembered and cherished by all who were privileged to know him.