Hilmer Anderson

Hilmer Anderson, 90, of Westby, died Monday, August 29, 2016. Hilmer Luther Anderson, age 90, of Westby passed away on Monday, August 29, 2016 at home with his wife of 70 years, Hazel/Toots, at his side. Hilmer was born to Alvin and Ella (Jothen) Anderson on May 22, 1926 in the Township of Christiana, Vernon County, WI. He was united in marriage to Hazel Lee in the Westby Coon Prairie parsonage on July 27, 1946 in a double wedding with his twin brother, Howard (Mildred). Hilmer proudly served in WWII in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Calvert APA 32 from March 2, 1942 to May 6, 1944 including major battles at Saipan, Tarawa, Okinawa, and the Occupation of Japan. He was one of five Anderson brothers who served in the Navy. Hilmer loved his country and was honored to be on the Freedom Honor Flight 15 to Washington, D.C. on May 2, 2015 with his son, Red, and special friends, Roger Jaeger and Benny Olson. Hilmer retired from his furnace business in Westby at the age of 84. He was previously employed by Midwest Gas, owned the Shell and DX gas stations in Westby, and in his early years, Hilmer hauled milk for area farmers. He was a director of Snowflake Ski Club, served on the Westby City Council from 1957 to 1963, was a member of American Legion Post 155 of Westby for 67 years and served as a Post Commander and Vernon County Commander. He is survived by his wife, Hazel/Toots of Westby; four sons: Eugene of La Crosse; Doug (Karen) of Oak Creek, WI; Richard/Red (Dianne) of Westby; and Monte (Robin) of Neosho, MO; two daughters: Vickie Anderson of Tomah; and Pat (Dave) Strittmater of La Crosse. Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Kim (Bryan) Jerabek and Kelly (Chad) Williamson, Michele (Ryan) Stenslien and Corey Anderson, Tyler Anderson and Britt Anderson, and Dayna Noggle; and seven great-grandchildren: Connor and Carver Stenslien; Annalee, Frankie, and Millie Jerabek; and Noah and Aiva Anderson. He is also survived by his brother Arnie (Katherine) and in-laws Cleo Yttri, Joan Anderson, and Vern Melgard; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Hilmer was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: his twin Howard, Raymond/Dill, Alton, Phillip, and LeRoy; and two sisters: Esther Tryggestad and Lenora Melgard. We will miss this humble man of few words who lived his life with honesty and integrity. Dad/Grandpa never hung up the phone or let us leave his house without saying "I love you". We love you more. Funeral Services will be held at 2pm on Friday, September 2, 2016 at the Country Coon Prairie Church. Pastor Gary Daines will officiate. Burial with Military honors will follow in the Coon Prairie Cemetery. Friends may call at the church from 1 pm till the time of service at 2. Online Condolences may be offered at www.VossFH.com The Vosseteig Funeral Home of Westby is serving the family.