David Oscar Anderson

David Oscar Anderson, age 57, of Mankato, died on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at his home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, Mankato, on Monday, January 18, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. David will be interred at the Christ Chapel Memorial Garden at Gustavus Adolphus College.

David, son of Dr. Oscar and Dorothy (Dibbern) Anderson, was born on May 25, 1963, in Mankato. After graduating from West High School in 1981, he went on to Gustavus Adolphus College, graduating in 1985, with a double major of business and geography. Taking his love of geography on the road, one of his favorite trips was a six-week trek through India and Europe. This trip sparked a lifetime of travel adventures. David was also an avid outdoorsman and pet owner. His beloved chocolate lab, Abby, was a long time companion among others. He loved to hunt, fish and just be in nature. He even spent a time as a hunting guide in Montana.

After college, he moved to St. Cloud and worked in real estate and property management. In 1994, he moved back to Mankato, continuing his entrepreneurial ventures by developing his own construction business. One of the highlights of his career was helping the town of his alma mater, St. Peter, recover from the devastation of the 1998 tornadoes.

In 1989, David was hit head-on by a drunk driver. This serious accident left him with life-long back and neck injuries. David suffered from increasing chronic pain throughout his life. Although these injuries greatly diminished his abilities to do the things he loved, his faith and fortitude took him far.

He will be dearly missed by his mother, siblings and family. Since he had no children, time spent with his nieces and nephews was precious. They will remember him fondly as the “fun uncle.”

He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Anderson, of North Mankato; siblings Lisa (Michael) Johnson and their children, Andrew, Gena, Jillian; Steven (Carol) Anderson and their children, Ingrid, Joshua, Ethan; Kristin (Vincent) Vanella and their children, Charles, Jack, Jessica (John) and Michael.

He was preceded in death by his father, Oscar D. Anderson.

Memorials may be directed to Grace Lutheran Church or Global Eye Mission or donor’s choice. Northview – North Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.