Obituaries & Tributes

Marcia Arlene Anderson

Marcia A. Anderson was carried in God’s loving arms to her heavenly home on April 13, 2020. Marcia was 98 years old and gave God the glory of a long, happy, fulfilled life.

She was born in Colton, South Dakota, to Cora (Austin) and Andrew Henderson. 

She began playing the piano and organ in church at the age of 14, and continued that service to God until her mid-80s. She was always involved in all aspects of congregational life. 

Marcia graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, and after her husband, Ray, was discharged from the Navy in 1945, she taught high school English and music, while he attended South Dakota State University. They moved to Minnesota to live, work and rear their son and daughter in Minnetonka. 

Marcia also renewed her Teaching Certificate and became a school librarian. All students and staff loved her, as she did them. 

In 1985, she and Ray retired to Arizona, where they especially enjoyed rides on Ray’s motorcycle and taking trips to visit family and friends. Being a mom and “Grandma Marcia” were her greatest delights! Her grandchildren treasure memories of her reading to them, making up many stories, and playing with them. As they grew, she loved attending their musical or sporting events, and marveled at their accom- plishments. 

Marcia moved to Cottage Grove in 2018 and was uplifted by the family of Trinity Lutheran Church and spiritual care of Pastor Markus. She thoroughly enjoyed lively companionship and nurturing care at Magnolia Gardens. Her loving spirit, positive attitude, wisdom, strong faith and good humor will be missed, but we are comforted that she is at peace. 

Marcia is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Ray. 

She is survived by her son, John (Gloria); daughter, Nancy (Steve) Vasilakes; six grandchildren; eight-plus great grandchildren; her loving sister Ruth; nieces, and nephews. 

Marcia’s family will be forever grateful to her Caregivers at Magnolia Memory Care, and the excellent care from Sacred Heart Home Health and Hospice. 

Memorial services celebrating Marcia’s life will take place later. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing memorials to: the Angels of Africa well project, c/o Trinity Lutheran Church, Cottage Grove, the Choir Program at Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria, Arizona; or the Haiti Dental Mission program, by Highlands Church in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Instagram

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

The Chronicle (@thechronicle1909) • Instagram photos and videos