Colleen Marie Anderson

Colleen Marie Anderson, beloved wife, mother, sister and “Amma” passed away at the age of 61 on August 26, 2017 with her family lovingly by her side in Stillwater, MN. She was born on February 8th, 1956 in Ottawa, Ontario to Dr. Daniel and Marie Anderson. She was the third of ten children. Colleen grew up in Taylors Falls, MN along the St. Croix River. She met the love her life, Philip Larson, in grade school at the age of eleven. Together, they had three children, Nicolette, Jaclyn and Calvin. Colleen received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from St. Benedict University in 1978. She worked in the Forest Lake School District for 23 years, where she taught and influenced many students’ lives, from early elementary-aged to young adults with special needs. Colleen had a wondrous spirit and questioned everything. There were very few things for which she did not have an answer or some knowledge of, due to her ferocious curiosity. Colleen was a champion for the underdogs and social injustices of the world, and even protested on the steps of the Capitol. She was a patient and careful listener, sure to craft you some anecdotal advice. A free thinker—far from mainstream—who could leave you questioning your own perspective after just one cup of coffee. Her compassionate and concerning nature were her cardinal strengths, and she directed them fiercely towards her loved ones. She delighted in Mother Nature, collecting stones, seeds, and other curiosities. Colleen found peace and faith in the outdoors and never missed a walk or bike ride, regardless of the weather. She treasured time floating down the St. Croix on the pontoon fondly named “Clairebuoyant,” gathering for a bonfire, sharing a delicious meal everyone helped to make, visiting over a glass of Lambrusco, and meandering along the bluffs of the riverbank. She enjoyed growing vegetables, herbs and flowers, trips to Europe with her family, reading novels and The Sun, searching for answers on her iPad, cooking old and new recipes, and listening to all kinds of music. Of all her interests and fascinations, her greatest love was her family and the gift of simply being together, which included passing down to her beloved grandchildren, Eva and Gavin, how to appreciate and care for the beauty around us. Colleen is survived by her loving husband, Philip Larson; daughters, Nicolette (Philip) Gropel, Jaclyn (Paul) Haas, and their son, Calvin Larson; grandchildren, Eva and Gavin Gropel; and nine siblings. Preceded in death by parents, Dr. Daniel and Marie Anderson; father and mother-in-law, Philip and Evelyn Larson. Colleen will be remembered by her contagious smile, compassionate and warm heart, and genuine kindness. For her intellect, individuality and fearless voice for social justice. And for her wondrous spirit and immeasurable strength. Colleen will be greatly missed and could never be replaced, but she will live on in the many hearts that loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4-6 p.m. with a formal service at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 7, 2017 at Simonet Funeral Home, 6429 Osgood Ave. N., Stillwater, MN.

Service Information

Celebration of Life

Thursday, September 7 2017
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Simonet Funeral Home
6429 Osgood Avenue
Stillwater MN 55082

Formal Service

Thursday, September 7 2017
4:30 PM

Simonet Funeral Home
6429 Osgood Avenue
Stillwater MN 55082