James (Jim) Oscar Anderson, was born November 8, 1941 to Ole J. Anderson and Doris Rundhaug Anderson in Sioux Falls, SD.
Due to Ole’s profession as a Federal Bank Regulator they moved to several locations in Minnesota. Jim was 3 years old when his brother Curtis John was born. Later, Ole became ill and passed in 1947. Doris, with her two sons, moved back to Watford City, ND. They lived with Jim’s grandmother, Mattie Aure, near Keene, ND. In 1949, Doris married Elery Hystad from Farland Township near Arnegard, ND. In 1950, a daughter, Virginia, was born, giving Jim and Curtis a little sister to adore.
Jim attended grades 1 through 8 at Farland Country school. He later attended Watford City public school where he graduated in 1958. He was a young man taking two grades at the same time, entering his senior year at age 16. The family farm had a dairy operation and while he was in high school he would help milk the cows and deliver the milk to the creamery in Watford City before going to school.
Jim was an avid sports fan, and enjoyed all outdoor activities. He became proficient in archery, winning a number of competitions. Later in life, Jim was able to go on the hunt of a lifetime with family and friends, shooting a trophy elk. His love for sports and outdoor activities can be seen in his family today.
After graduating from high school, he attended NDSU/ROTC in Fargo, ND. There, he met Carol Johnson, they were married in 1961. He was a manger of Woolworths while in Fargo and Minot, ND. They moved to Minneapolis/White Bear Lake where he managed the produce department at Hoves grocery store. By this time, Jim and Carol were blessed with four beautiful children: Jim Jr. Jerry, Kelly, and Holly.
In 1979 Jim and his family moved to Alexander, ND to partner with his parents Elery and Doris Hystad on the farm and ranch. They raised beef cattle and small grains. Jim personally built his new home, barn and corrals at the Bird Head Ranch which bordered the Big Missouri River. While living at the ranch, they were blessed with two more children, Kristin and Scott.
In 2013, after spending 34 years in North Dakota, Jim and Carol chose to move to Belgrade, MT. Jim enjoyed looking at the Bitterroot Mountains from their home. Here, they were close to family and able to enjoy the many activities and scenery the area provided.
In 2021, Carol and the family celebrated Jim’s 80th birthday, it was a great and memorable event for everyone.
On May 14, 2024, Jim passed away peacefully, at St. Vincent Hospital with his wife and family at his side, he will be missed by all.
Jim was preceded in death by his father Ole J. Anderson, stepfather Elery Hystad, mother Doris Anderson Hystad, brother Curtis John Anderson, and grandson Taylor Nelson.
He is survived by his wife Carol of 63 years, children Jim Jr. Anderson (Dorinda), Jerry Anderson (Jana), Kelly Anderson Gray (Jerry), Holly Anderson Nelson (Ed), Kristin Anderson Gunderson (James), Scott Anderson, his sister Virginia Hystad Ceynar (David), 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Community Bible Church in Musselshell, Montana. Burial will follow in the Musselshell Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 17, 2024
Community Bible Church
Musselshell, Montana 59059
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday May 17, 2024
Community Bible Church
Musselshell, Montana 59059
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Becky Stanton says
Jerry, Jana and family
I am sorry for the loss of your father. May God bless you with wonderful memories. You all are in my thoughts and prayers
Marcy Parks says
Jerry, Jana, Britney, Alexis, Briana, and Sydney, you are all in my thoughts and prayers! My heart goes out to you! Praying for God’s comfort through the prescious memories and stories, the special moments you had with Dad and Grandpa.
Pam Rogge says
Jerry, Jana and family,
Prayers and condolences at this time and in the days ahead. May you find comfort in special memories.
Jim and Beth Gray says
Our memories of Jim and Carol are from an Alaskan cruise we shared with Kelly and Jerry. I don’t know a better time way to get to know each other. Lots of fun, lots of memories. Especially Jim’s whale picture with his phone, reversed. We pray for comfort for Carol and the family.
Jim and Beth Cray
Pam Rettig says
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great man that left so many people with wonderful memories. I always enjoyed the twinkle in his eyes and his thoughtful nature. His memory lives on as he touched so many hearts. Ongoing prayers are sent your way.
Rev Dan Paulson says
Gods Richest Blessings on this family of love. Enjoyed knowing, talking and being with Jim during my call to that area. I enjoyed his humor, and his total love for you Carol and all you beautiful children. You were all blessed to call each other family. Peace be with you all.
Emilie Walker & Arthur Walker says
Prayers & Hugs to Carol & Family. So sad to hear of Jims death. He was such a Gentle man & a good friend. His family has lost a true Husband, Father & Grandpa .
Love from the Walker Family in Minnesota & Washington
DIANE SCHMITZ says
Carol & family – so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I only met him a few times, but his sense of humor was very apparent. I always looked forward to reading his Christmas letters. Your life has been quite a ride.
You have my sympathy.