---

Inda Mae (Babe) Anderson, age 100, of Chisago City, passed away May 30. Born to Fred and Inda Partch, she grew up on the east side of St. Paul. Her high school years were spent at Johnson High School, enjoying outdoor sports, skating and archery.

Babe met Kenneth Anderson during their school years. She was intrigued by his quiet demeanor, beautiful voice and charming ways. They continued to date after graduating and married September 6, 1940. They bought a farm outside of Chisago City and Babe quickly adjusted to being a farmer’s wife. She worked alongside Ken, doing chores and harvesting crops. She loved their house and made it a home for Ken and their three daughters.

Family was important to Babe and she actively supported her girls in school functions, sporting events, band and choir concerts. Babe also enjoyed teaching Sunday school at the First United Methodist Church in Lindstrom of which they were members since 1942.

Besides taking care of home duties, Babe had a variety of jobs through the years; working at Parmly, the middle school and loved demo’ing various food products at Brink’s Market. She excelled at selling Swede sausage. Speaking of food, Babe was a master at baking breads and pies. These goodies would often accompany them on their Sunday drives, picnics, hikes, camping adventures and boat cruises down the St. Croix.

Babe loved to dance, especially the time she and Ken spent with the Chi Ka Saga Scandinavian Folk Dancers. Learning various dances, they whirled and stepped their way through many appearances throughout Minnesota. They even danced for the King and Queen of Sweden when they visited the Chisago Lakes area.
Faith was an integral part of Babe’s life as she began each day with devotions and prayer. Spending Sundays at church with family and friends brought her closer to the lord.

She was very proud of her English and Irish heritage, but really embraced her one percent Swedish bloodline. After all, she was married to a handsome Swede!
Very often, Babe was asked what was the secret to her longevity and the standard response would be “I’m feisty!” Yes, she wore it well. Her personality endeared her to those who met her with a Swedish term or a kind word. She will be greatly missed by all!

A private memorial service for Babe will be held at the Lindstrom First United Methodist Church. Memorial preferences are directed to “Talking Book Topics”, a program for the visually impaired - e-mail: mn.btbl@ state.mn.us or Lindstrom First United Methodist Church.

---