Patricia Ann Pederson

 

Patricia “Pat” Pederson, 92 of Alexandria entered God’s kingdom on Monday, December 5, 2023. Born in Clarissa, MN, graduated Long Prairie High School, and Minneapolis Business School    Preceded in death by her sister Mary Jane, father Robert, mother Helen, brother Bob and former spouse, Richard (Dick).

Pat was part of the "Silent Generation."  She lived through WW2 and the Great Depression.  Mom worked all her life in both paid and volunteer roles.  She retired at age 70, after many years as a nurse's aide at Douglas County Hospital, never taking one sick day.  She was a member, secretary, VP and president in many civic organizations including the VFW and American Legion.  For 12 years, she served the city of Alexandria as a City Council member for Ward 5    Additionally, she was a member of many organizations including: Daughters of Isabella, Garden Club, Toastmasters as well as being a Red Cross volunteer.  She also served as an election judge for many years.

After retiring, Pat was finally able to take time for herself. She spent it traveling; visiting cities such as Salzberg, Munich, Banff, Montreal, along with some warmer locales such as Kawai and the Florida Keys, just to name a few. She also enjoyed time visiting with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pat lived independently in the same home for over 60 years. She always made herself available to her children, friends, and neighbors. It was impossible to visit mom‘s house and not leave without a couple dozen cookies or fresh laundry – straight from the clothesline! She had a special place in her heart for those in need. When she was approaching 80, she went on a mission trip to Mexico and helped build a school for the residents of Nogales.  She was selfless with her time and always put the needs of others first. 

Mom never seemed to have a bad day, and always made the best of a bad situation. She had the most beautiful red, curly hair, gorgeous blue eyes, and never left the house without the perfect shade of lipstick.

She is survived by her eight children; Mark (Jan) Pederson, of Alexandria, Andrea (Jim) Allen, of Eden Prairie, Judy Howell of St. Louis Park, Matt Pederson, of Brainerd, Mike (Liane) Pederson, of Bloomington, Eileen (Jim) Kayfes of Maple Grove, Gretchen Pederson of Minneapolis, and Erik (Tiffany) Pederson of Plymouth. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren, sisters Betty Grant of Sun Valley, ID and Joan Ames of Woodbury, MN.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria from 4-6 PM with a 5:30 PM Daughters of Isabella Rosary. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:30pm at St Mary's Catholic Church in Alexandria on Thursday, December 14, 2023, with private burial for family at St Mary’s Cemetery and lunch following at St Mary’s church.

Memorials preferred to Outreach Food Shelf or The Caring & Sharing Room of St. Mary's Church.