Violet Martha Anderson was born on March 30, 1910, in Danbury, Iowa to Carl F. and Pearle (Frentress) Brown. She was baptized and confirmed also in Danbury, Iowa. She attended school in Danbury graduating in 1928. She graduated from Iowa State College at Ames, Iowa in 1932.On August 2, 1941, she was married to Lloyd "Skinny" Anderson at South Sioux City, Nebraska. Violet taught home economics, chemistry, and math at Buffalo and Appleton. Married women were not allowed to teach so she was forced to quit teaching in 1941. She later was substitute teacher at various schools and taught supplemental education (Title 1). She also helped at the family's business, Appleton Furniture and Funeral Home.Violet was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. Women's Society was an important part of that involvement. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Monday Club, and bridge club. Meals-on-Wheels and one-to-one volunteering at the Willmar State Hospital were important involvements for her as well.Brownie enjoyed sewing, knitting, cribbage, bridge, bingo, crossword puzzles, traveling with friends and family and taking an occasional driving trip to Granite Falls. Her church, family, and friends were the most important part in her life. She enjoyed working at the Swift County fair in the sewing department of the Women's Building. Brownie had great wit, wisdom, and integrity. She was a trusted and true friend. She gained strength from determination especially after the death of her husband. Her upbeat, positive attitude was an example to all who knew her.Brownie died on Monday morning, January 11, at Appleton Area Health Services. She had attained 99 years, 9 months, and 11 days of age.She is survived by three children: Richard (Harriett) Anderson of Danbury, Iowa, Carla (P. James) Taurinskas of Mendota Heights, and Leora Anderson (H. Butch Moening) of Cottage Grove; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; her niece, Donna Allis, who lived with the family during her junior high and senior high school years; grand-dog, Lucy Joy; and other relatives and friends.She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lloyd Anderson, in 1963; sister, Frances Leavengood; and brother-in-law, Mervyn Leavengood.
