Donavon Anderson

Donavon Anderson, age 96, of St. James, MN, died on March 12, 2026, at his home in St. James, MN.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and will continue on Thursday from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM at the Sturm Funeral Home in St. James, MN.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday at 11:00 AM at the St. James Catholic Church in St. James, MN.

Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in St. James, MN.

Donavon Carroll Anderson was born in St. James, MN at the family farm on June 8, 1929 the son of Harry and Isabelle (Jenson) Anderson. He graduated from St. James High School in 1946. After high school he worked in the construction business. He enlisted in the US Army National Guard during the Korean War, 1950-1952, achieving the rank of Sgt. 1st Class.

On May 26, 1951, he was united in marriage to Genevieve Ann Berger in New Ulm, MN. Shortly after their marriage the couple moved to Alabama with the activation of Donavon’s Army National Guard Unit. Returning to Minnesota after the service they located in St. James to raise a family. Donavon worked in various enterprises including DBL Construction, Anderson Furniture & Carpet and the Sears Catalog Store.

Donavon was involved with the Knights of Columbus, JCs, Rotary Club, a member of the VFW and the American Legion where he served as Commander.

He enjoyed card games, bird watching, making wine, and root beer, gardening, fixing things and helping his children and grandchildren with different projects. He also enjoyed helping with remodeling projects with his children. He always had a smile for all.

He is survived by his children Richard (Cyndy) Anderson of Dickson, TN, Mary Jo Sandmeyer of St. James, Kathy (Ron) Yff of Avon, MN, Denise (Jeff) Poetter of Eagan, MN, 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, sister Marcia Johnson of Lawrence, KS and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 58 years, Genevieve, his parents, step father Emil Tande, infant brother, son-in-law, Larry Sandmeyer and brother-in-law Rodger Johnson.