Anthony Anderson

Velva

Anthony Anderson, 86, Velva, died Tuesday, November 4, 2025, in a Bismarck nursing home.

Anthony Edward “Tony” Anderson was born on December 18, 1938 in Minot, ND to William and Ruth (Mobeck) Anderson. After the death of his mother when he was two years old, Anthony boarded a train from Hankinson, ND, with his older siblings, to move to Velva and live with their uncle and aunt, Clarence and Lillian Miller, who became ‘dad’ and ‘mom’ to Anthony for the rest of his life. He loved growing up and raising his own family in Velva, ND.

Tony graduated from Velva High School and was once married to Almaree Loberg Anderson. They made their home on a farm outside of Velva where they raised their three children: Craig, Lori, and Paul.

Tony was a Velva Aggie through and through. He loved cheering on his kids and participating in sports events. That didn’t change with his grandchildren. You still found him at almost every game and event proudly wearing his Velva Aggie gear. Prior to his death, he was working with his grandchildren trying to get to one last state football game to hopefully see Velva win. He never stopped cheering them on. He formed lasting friendships with many of the coaches from Velva.

Tony was a member of Oak Valley Lutheran Church, and loved being able to volunteer his time, particularly with the men’s group. One of his favorite activities was getting into his car and delivering meals to individuals for big church events, even if there were only a couple.

Tony loved to play pinochle on Wednesdays and sometimes on Sundays. It was a “never-miss” event. He enjoyed being with his friends and playing cards for hours – even if that meant hanging up his phone on family when they called during his “card time.”

Tony loved his family fiercely and made an impact in friendship on so many. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were shining stars in his eyes. He would travel miles to see them and tried to make every moment special. Tony lived his life in a truly authentic, un-selfish manner – really trying to put others before himself. A recovered alcoholic, he never hesitated to remind his loved ones that life can be imperfect, and we make mistakes, but we can always be better. We will miss his many phone calls, surprise doorstep deliveries, and stories.

Tony is survived by his children: Paul Anderson and Lori Britton; grandchildren: Jessica (Bo) Carow, Erin (Shayne) Haustveit, Dakota (Scott) Tweed, Jill Britton, Levi Anderson, Tracey (Casey) Lucero, Hunter Anderson, and Lilliana Anderson; great-grandchildren: Camdyn, Aksel, Trym, Dontay, Jeremiah, Allerah, Michael, Logan, Aubree, Ada, Boston and Ty.

Tony was preceded in death by his birth parents, “adoptive” parents (special uncle and aunt), son: Craig Anderson and siblings: Shirley Bechtold, Dorothy Reishus and Bob Anderson.

Memorial Gathering: November 20, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home- Minot. Please wear your Velva Aggie colors with pride for the gathering.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Published by The Minot Daily News, November 13, 2025.