Marlan V. Anderson

Marlan V. Anderson, 79, Moorhead, MN, passed away August 12, 2015, in the VA Medical Center, Fargo, ND, with family members at his side.

Marlan Viley Anderson was born May 12, 1936, in Lake Park, MN, to Viley and Gudrun (Jacobson) Anderson. After graduating from Lake Park High School, he joined the US Navy in 1955, and served 4 years on the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DD823). During his time aboard ship, it made port in numerous countries around the world.
Marlan married Donna Nybakken in 1961 in Salem Lutheran Church, Hitterdal, MN. They lived in North Mankato, MN, and Hawley, MN, before settling in Moorhead.

In 1966, Marlan joined the Moorhead Fire Department as a firefighter, and later was promoted to Fire Inspector, Fire Marshal, and in 1982, he was appointed as Fire Chief. He welcomed the opportunity to learn new trends and techniques in firefighting, and attended several fire and arson schools.

In retirement, Marlan enjoyed a daily visit to the YMCA, for saunas, exercise and conversation. He enjoyed weekly Wednesday lunch gatherings with friends at the American Legion. Marlan was happiest when working on projects with his son, Shawn. Their biggest project was building a lake cabin. He always looked forward to the annual 4th of July celebrations at the lake and holiday gatherings with family.

Marlan was a member of the MN Fire Chief's Association, American Legion, VFW, Clay County Safety Council, and the MN Sheriff's Association.
Marlan is survived by his wife, Donna; son, Shawn (Lynne); granddaughters, Katie (Brice) Conner, Molly (Royce) Wenner, Chelsea, and Betsy; great-granddaughter, Marley Rose; his brother, David; sisters-in-law, Sylvia Anderson and Kathy (Rod) Lezer; nieces and nephews, Kathy, Mark, Brad and Sara; several cousins; and four godchildren, Leah, Chris, Jaime and Kelly.
Marlan was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Charles; sister-in-law, Marlene Anderson; and brothers-in-law, Roger Olson and Brian Hannula.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff at the VA for their exceptional care, and the wonderful help and support from Hospice of the Red River Valley, yellow team.
Visitation for Marlan will be Monday, 5 PM until 7 PM, with prayer service at 7 PM, in Korsmo Funeral Chapel, Moorhead. Memorial service will be Tuesday, August 18, 2015, at 11 AM, in Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Moorhead.