Dolores Rose Anderson, 85, of Sparta went to be with her Savior early Tuesday morning, Oct. 12, 2021, at the Lakeview Care Center in West Salem, Wis.
Dolores was born Dec. 16, 1935, to Alfred and Myrtle (Robinson) Wall in Ontario, Wis. On Nov. 17, 1956, she married Charles Frederick Anderson at United Brethren Church in Ontario.
Growing up, Dolores had a desire to be a teacher, and after graduation from Ontario High School, she continued her education at the Vernon County Normal Teacher’s College. She began her career in a number of one-room schoolhouses in the surrounding area, including Brush Creek, Rockton, and Sandhill Schools. As her time as an educator progressed, her love of the field of knowledge continued. In 1973, she received her bachelor’s degree from the Wisconsin State University at La Crosse.
The Norwalk-Ontario-Wilton School system and the students whom she taught were very fortunate to have someone as dedicated as Mrs. Anderson. She was determined, resourceful and creative in the classroom, especially when it came to science, a subject she loved teaching.
Dolores wore many hats as an educator, and she was also the equipment master for all AV needs. She had strong organization skills, respect, and empathy for students and peers, all traits that contributed to her success after she accepted the Norwalk-Ontario Elementary School’s principal position.
While not in the classroom, Dolores played piano and organ in the church, where she also was choir leader and involved in parish women’s organizations. She had many pastimes, including sewing American Girl Doll dresses, making Halloween costumes, baking, and raising African violets.
Dolores is survived by her husband of nearly 65 years, Charles; three children, Michael Jon (Janeen) Anderson, Jefferey Von (Patty) Anderson, and Lynette Dawn (Robert) Huston; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jeremy (Melissa) Anderson and their children, Drew, Brennon and Alexis, Kristina (Michael) Topness and their children, Kylie and Anna, Darrin (Sara) Anderson and their children, Allie, Olive, and Ella, Tori (Tyler) Erickson and their children, Tryg, Calloway and Mavie, Kelsey (Brandon) Flock and their children, Elaine, Emery and baby on the way, Jenna (Ben) Sullivan and a baby on the way, Aimee Lynn Lawrence and son Matteo, Ranger Christopher Lawrence, and Aspen Michelle Lawrence; along with nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Dolores was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter, Michell Rose Anderson; and her sister and brother-in-law, Ardyth (Avery) Rich.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 18, at the Torkelson Funeral Home, 720 Wisconsin St., Cashton. Pastor Amanda Schultz Garcia will officiate. Burial will follow in Bethany Sandhill Cemetery, rural La Farge. Those who are not able to attend Dolores’ funeral service may view the event through the Torkelson Funeral Home Facebook page.
The family has asked that memorials be given in lieu of flowers. They will donate to the N-O-W Scholarship Fund in Dolores’ (Mrs. Anderson’s) name.
Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
