Gary Lee Anderson

Gary Lee Anderson, 80, of Albert Lea, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea.

Born on June 7, 1945, in Albert Lea, MN, he was a son of the late Roger and Ann (Thostheim) Anderson. Gary graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1963 and went on to serve in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1966, a period during which he developed a strong sense of duty and commitment to his country.

After his military service, Gary dedicated 33 years to the Albert Lea Fire Department, where he retired as Captain, but he continued to serve his community part-time at Jim & Dude's Plumbing, showcasing his handy skills that undoubtedly helped his family and friends throughout the years.

On April 8, 1967, Gary married the love of his life, Sharon (Bakken) and together they raised their three children: Troy, Tami, and Michelle. They were married for almost 55 years. As a father, Gary was a devoted and supportive figure, always present at his children’s events and activities, and later, a doting grandfather who cherished the time spent with his grandchildren. 

Gary was a well-known and active member of the Albert Lea American Legion Post 56, serving as Commander in 1992-1993 and 2007-2008. His friendly and warm demeanor made him a beloved figure in the community and a friend to all. He had a passion for collecting Daisy Red Ryder BB guns and enjoyed golf, hunting, shooting, trapping, and bowling. His annual fishing trips with family were treasured moments that reflected his love for the outdoors and the bonds he nurtured with loved ones. Gary was also known for his love of playing cards, particularly Huckly Buck, with friends. 

Those left to cherish Gary’s memory include his three children, Troy (Amy) Anderson, Tami Anderson and Michelle (Mike) Jellinger; his grandchildren, Zachary Anderson, Halley (Trevor) Larson, Cody Johannsen, Adam Johannsen, Katie Johannsen, Morgan (Logan Madson) Jellinger and Jack (Courtney Harmdierks) Jellinger; great-grandchildren: Everly and Addison Anderson, Kinsley Larson, and Ivy Madson; siblings, Don (Kathy) Anderson, Diane (Gene) Wangen, and Mary (Jon Nordstrom) Anders; many nieces, nephews and extended family members; and countless friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon L. Anderson; father, Roger W. Anderson; his mother Ann Cornell; sister, Barbara Kneeland; father-in-law, Howard Bakken; and mother-in-law, Evelyn Bakken.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Ascension Lutheran Church with Pastor Mark Boorsma officiating. The family will receive friends at a visitation to be held from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed.

The livestream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services. Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the livestream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.