GRASSTON — With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of Terry Dean Anderson, a proud and decorated two-time Purple Heart veteran who honorably served in the United States Army; a beloved husband, father, cherished grandfather, and great-grandfather. Terry passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most, at his daughter’s home and business, CountrySide Living, in Grasston, Minn. He was 81 years old. Keith and Elnora Anderson of Fairmont, Minn., were blessed to adopt Terry as an infant and raise him as their own. He grew up on a small farm, where he helped his father work the land and raise horses and pigs. Those early years shaped his strong work ethic and deep appreciation for life’s simple joys–especially the companionship of his most cherished horse, Charlie. SGT Anderson (Terry) served his country honorably from 1967 to 1969, including a combat tour in Vietnam. During that time, the company he served with suffered devastating losses, losing multiple peers to combat. When others fell, SGT Anderson courageously stepped forward to lead the remaining troops with unwavering resolve and steadfast courage–nearly losing his own life on multiple occasions. He did not escape that unimaginable hell unscarred, sustaining both a gunshot wound and extensive shrapnel injuries from multiple explosions. For his bravery and sacrifices, he was later awarded two Purple Hearts. Long after leaving the uniform behind, Terry continued to live by the values of service, integrity, discipline, and loyalty. He went on to serve as a Regional Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and, alongside several fellow veterans, played a leading role in the design and implementation of the Martin County Veterans Memorial in Fairmont, Minn. Terry stood firmly for what he believed in, feared no one, and was always a force to be reckoned with. He led not only with words, but by example. His strength, wisdom, integrity, and dedication were–and will always be–unmatched. A man of deep-rooted faith, Terry worked tirelessly wherever and whenever he felt called to help others. Among his many acts of service were his involvement with Three Cross Ministries, where he and a select group mentored troubled youth through horseback riding and camping in the mountains, and his role in implementing Ruby’s Pantry at East Chain Evangelical Free Church in Granada–a ministry that continues to serve the community today. Terry also took great pride in the city of Fairmont, where he served for many years on the city council, including as chairman of the board. Professionally, he owned and operated Design Jewelers, working as a master gold and silversmith for over 50 years. His handmade jewelry reflected not only exceptional craftsmanship, but his heart and artistry. After retiring and selling his stores, Terry and his wife, Susan, went on to start juried art shows across the western United States. It brought Terry immense joy to mentor his beloved granddaughters, Cameron and Jenessa Anderson, to whom he eventually passed on his love for silver smithing, jewelry-making, and his business. Above all else, Terry found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He showed us daily what it meant to live with humility, kindness, and purpose. He was always the first to offer a helping hand–giving freely, without hesitation or expectation. He loved sharing stories, always delivered with a sparkle in his eye and a grin on his face. Terry is survived by his cherished wife, Susan; his beloved daughters, Kelli Sundet (Corey) and Lexi Goodwin; his grandchildren, Byron, Wyatt, Cameron, Skylar, Jenessa, and Anya; and his great-grandchildren, Atlas (Anya’s son) and Vienna Rae (Wyatt’s daughter). He is also survived by many dear friends and numerous brothers-in-arms who loved and respected him deeply. He is now reunited with his parents, Keith and Elnora; other beloved family members; and the many brothers-in-arms who preceded him in death. Though he has left our side, Terry’s legacy of love, honor, courage, and service will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services, Dresser Methven Chapel, Mora, Minn. www.methvenfuneralhome.com