Watch Sam's Funeral Here

Selmer "Sam" Aanenson, age 78, of Bejou, MN, died on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Benedictine Living Community in Crookston, MN.

Selmer LeRoy Aanenson, the son of Sidney and Muriel Aanenson, was born on August 4, 1944, in Ada, MN. He was raised in the Rindahl area and attended school in Fertile until the 8 ^th grade when he began helping on the farm. Sam also worked for Almer and Junette Hedahl in rural Twin Valley, MN, before going into the United States Army. He was honorably discharged as an E-5 Sargent. After his discharge, Sam moved back to the Rindahl area and was blessed with two children, Rhonda and Wayne. Over the years, he worked for the Rindahl Creamery, Arctic Cat, and for various farmers in the area. In 1998, Sam moved back to the farm to care for his parents. In 2000, he had an accidental electrocution and decided it was time to retire. Shortly after, he was diagnosed with lung cancer, which he successfully conquered. In April 2022, Sam was diagnosed with a brain tumor and despite having surgery, it came back. Sam moved to Benedictine Living Community in December 2022 until his passing.

Sam is survived by his children: Rhonda (Chris) Voit and Wayne (Destiny) Aanenson; three grandchildren: Emily (Austin Stoot), Sean, and Lilyanna; three great-grandchildren: Melaina, Emmett, and Kinley Stroot; brother, Stanley (Linda) Aanenson; two sisters: Barbara Iverson and Linda (Leonard) Engen; seven nieces and nephews: Tami, Bonnie, Byron, Aaron, Kim, Stacy, and Kelly; several great nieces and nephews; and many extended family.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Ernest Iverson; several aunts and uncles; nephew, Jamie; niece, Shelly; and great-nephew, Andrew.

A Time of Gathering will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 pm, with a Memorial Service beginning at 6:00 pm, on Monday, January 23, 2023, at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen, MN.  Military Honors will be held immediately following the service at the funeral home.