Vernon Anderson, age 76, of Ada, Minnesota, died Tuesday, November 11, 2008, in his home.

Vernon Louallyn Anderson was born November 3rd, 1932, the son of Knud and Petra (Oistad) Anderson in Crookston, Minnesota. He grew up on the family farm near Shelly, Minnesota. Vernon was baptized and confirmed his faith at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Shelly. He attended a country grammar school named "Cheerful Hut" near Shelly. He then attended and graduated from Halstad High School with the class of 1950. Following graduation, Vernon served in the military. Vernon was united in marriage to Eveline Hanson of Gary, in 1959. Together they had three children, Virgil, Cari and Jill. Vernon farmed for a number of years as well as being employed at various other jobs. He worked at a meat packing plant in West Fargo and at Silverline Manufacturing in Fargo building boats. He also spent many years as a heavy equipment operator driving caterpillars and backhoes. Vernon's favorite past times included woodworking and fishing. He was an early riser, often waiting for the morning newspaper by 4:30 AM. He enjoyed being with his family and treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchild. Vernon was very faithful to remember them on their birthdays and at Christmas.

Vernon is survived by two daughters, Jill (Mike) Nelson and Cari (Barry) Halland all of Gary, MN; eight grandchildren, Rachel, Ryan (fiancé Brenda), Amy (Josh), April, Ross, Ashley, Kyle and Brock and one great-grandchild, Macy and two sisters, Adeline Lee and Pearl Strand both of Halstad, MN.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Violet Louise, three brothers, Melvin, George and Roger and his son, Virgil.

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 2:30 PM in the Anderson Funeral Home, Twin Valley, Minnesota. Officiating was Pastor John Ahola with Alden Anderson providing special music. Pallbearers were Ryan Halland, Brenda Kaiser, April Halland, Ross Halland, Amy Pederson, Josh Pederson, Ashley Nelson, Kyle Nelson, Brock Nelson and Rachel Anderson. Military honors were provided by the Twin Valley Nesseth-Lien Post #431 of the American Legion.

Interment was in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Shelly, Minnesota