James "Jimmy" Charles Anderson

James “Jimmy” Charles Anderson passed away unexpectedly at home in Walker, Minnesota, on October 19, 2025, with his children nearby.

Born on April 29, 1949, Jimmy was the middle son of Walter and Joan Anderson. He grew up in the Walker area and graduated from Walker High School in 1969. Not long after, he served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in South Korea. That experience shaped both his discipline and his curiosity about the wider world.

After returning home, Jimmy attended Moorhead Vocational School, where he studied in the Chef Management program. Cooking wasn’t just his career; it was his love language. Over the years he worked in countless restaurants, including a stretch in Alaska as a chef for Alaska Sports Tours. Whether he was behind a grill, hosting friends, or whipping up something from scratch, Jimmy made sure everyone left full and laughing.

Jimmy was an outdoors guy. In fact, he’d tell you he met the love of his life, Sheila, in a patch of wild blueberries. He later shared that same tradition of berry picking with his daughter,

Marta, whether it was wild blueberries at their favorite spot or strawberries at Carter’s Farms. He was a reliable fisherman who knew Leech Lake and the surrounding lakes well and loved fishing with his son, Tyler. He also enjoyed swapping stories at deer camp and building lasting memories with family and friends. He was known for his quick wit, generous spirit, and legendary ability to spin a good tale (often with just enough “bull” mixed in to keep things interesting).

Jimmy was endlessly proud of his children, Tyler and Marta. They were his favorite topic of conversation, and anyone who spent time with him knew how much joy and pride they brought him.

He was preceded in death by his wife Sheila Andress Anderson, his parents Walter and Joan Anderson, and his brother Walter (“Bucky”) Anderson.

He is survived by his daughter Marta Anderson; son Tyler Anderson; his beloved grand-dog Reggie, who always had a special place in his heart (and on his lap at doggie daycare); his brother Nils (Mary) Anderson; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Jimmy will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who will carry on his stories and recipes, and probably argue about which version of his stories was actually true.

A celebration of Jimmy’s life will be scheduled for the spring of 2026.