Anderson, Donald Burton, age 95, of Golden Valley, died peacefully on August 1, 2025. Preceded in death by parents Fred W. and Louise B. Anderson, brother Robert B. Anderson, sister Marion (Malvin) Buseth, and stepmother Edla Alexander Anderson. Survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary Wemeier Anderson; sons James P. Anderson and John F. (Deborah) Anderson; grandsons Luke and Leo Anderson; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Early Life and Education 

Don was a lifelong resident of Minneapolis and Golden Valley, Minnesota. He attended Bryn Mawr Elementary School and graduated from Minneapolis West High School, Class of 1948. In 1950, he earned an Associate of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota. 

From 1950–1954, Don served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict, including one year stationed at Shemya Island Air Force Base in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Following his honorable discharge as an Airman First Class, he continued his education at Hamline University in social studies education with a minor in speech. 

During his senior year at Hamline, while student teaching at St. Louis Park Junior High, Don met a remarkable young woman named Mary who would become his wife and partner for the next 67 years. 

Career in Real Estate 

After college, Don left teaching to pursue a full-time career in real estate. He trained as an appraiser and became a partner in Brandberg-Anderson in North Minneapolis, working extensively on a contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to appraise homes along what would become the I-94 corridor. 

Later, he served as sales manager for Resop Realty in St. Louis Park, and in 1973, he was hired by Edina Realty to establish its Golden Valley office, remaining in management with Edina Realty until his retirement in 1989. 

Commitment to Professional and Community Leadership 

Throughout his career, Don was deeply involved in professional organizations and civic initiatives: 

National Association of REALTORS – Member 

Minnesota Association of REALTORS – Member 

Greater Minneapolis Area Board of REALTORS – Member, Vice President 

Society of Real Estate Appraisers – Member 

REALTORS Toastmasters Club – Charter Member, President 

REALTORS Credit Union – Organizer, longtime Credit Committee Chair 

Instructor at several local colleges, teaching fair housing laws and anti-discrimination practices 

Golden Valley Building Board of Review – Commissioner, multiple terms 

Golden Valley Human Services Foundation – Secretary, multiple terms 

Golden Valley Rotary Club – Founding Member (1973), President, Board Member, achieved perfect attendance for over 42 years by attending meetings wherever he traveled 

Love of Boating  

In 1978, Don purchased a houseboat to create more family time and for 25 years the Andersons enjoyed exploring the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers making lifelong friends along the way. 

A passionate boater and volunteer, Don was a Life Member of the St. Paul Squadron, serving in many roles including Commander. 

Golden Valley Historical Society 

In 1989, Don joined the Golden Valley Historical Society and served as its Secretary for more than 30 years. His leadership helped grow the organization’s membership, expand its educational programs, launch a monthly newsletter, and organize tours. 

He was instrumental in the 1997 acquisition of Golden Valley’s oldest church and in transforming it into the Golden Valley Museum. The space became a beloved wedding venue, and Don unexpectedly found himself serving as a successful wedding planner helping arrange more than 200 ceremonies. 

In 2022, the Mayor of Golden Valley officially proclaimed Don and Mary to be “Mr. and Mrs. Golden Valley” recognizing their more than 60 years of community service. In their honor the wedding venue at the Golden Valley Historical Society is now named “The Don & Mary Anderson Chapel” 

A Legacy of Character 

Don was humble. 

Don was dignified. 

Don quietly and consistently made a positive impact on those around him. 

Celebration of Life 

An open house will be held Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Brookview Golden Valley, 316 Brookview Parkway S, Golden Valley, MN 55426. 

In lieu of flowers or memorials, please consider a donation to the Golden Valley Historical Society. Details are available at www.goldenvalleyhistoricalsociety.org.