A Remarkable Lady And A Wonderful Colleague

It is with great sadness we report the passing of another of our wonderful parents.   Signe Anderson, themother of Marilyn (Anderson) Johns, passed away on Flag Day, June 14, 2019 (https://www.eidsnessfuneralhome.com/obituary/signe-anderson).  As Signe's obituary states, she was a 6th grade Title I reading instructor  for a number of years at the middle school, retiring in 1988.  My position at the middle school began in the fall of 1973, so we were colleagues for many years.  We likely had a few of the same students, as my position was also at the 6th grade level for 11 of those years.  After reading her obituary, my first thought was "When does she ever slow down and get some rest?"  She seemed to be always helping others and trying to make their lives better.  Someone once said that true love means wanting what is best for an individual.  By this definition, Signe had true love for everyone. 

Her life seemed so typical of her generation.  They lived through the depression, and realized that no matter how difficult times may have been, God would somehow provide.  Because of her love and faith in God, she sacrificed to make the lives of those around her much better.  As scripture says, "By their fruits you shall know them." (Mt. 7:20).  Signe's efforts bore much fruit, to which her family, colleagues, friends, fellow parishioners, and students can attest.

Our condolences and prayers go out to Marilyn at the loss of her mother, a truly remarkable person.

Update on June 19

The funeral for Signe Anderson was held today.  A number of our classmates were in attendance.  Marilyn's brother Steve taught and coached in Watertown, and five of those coaches were also in attendance.  As Watertown has always been a friendly rival with Brookings, I knew those coaches well.  At the luncheon afterwards, it was enjoyable to eat and converse with them.

Part of the funeral service was a message from the pastor, David J. Schoeld.  He eloquently characterized Signe's life as both a student and teacher.  She was a student because she was always learning.  She truly was a teacher, teaching reading in the middle school.  She also used her teaching skills as a parent, inspiring her children to persevere and to do their best, yet not worrying about things over which they had no control, for those difficulties, too, will pass.  As someone once said, "Problems are only temporary, unless you quit."  She certainly was successful in her parental role, as her children have achieved many honors in school and in adulthood.  As Pastor Schoeld indicated, she would appear to qualify for sainthood.

Her son Ron spoke in honor of Signe's memory.  He mentioned some of her favorite sayings and  described their lives as he recalled the days of his and his siblings' youth.  To conclude his stirring remembrance, he and his two daughters sang "Just A Closer Walk With Thee," while his wife accompanied them on the violin.