4500

This house needs no introduction to anyone on my mother's side of the family. It is 4500 Minnesota Avenue on Park Point in Duluth - the house my mother Lois grew up in.

When she saw this photo in a slide show she simply said -- there is a tree missing. Well this photo is from about 1980 and the trees are as I remember.

But when compared to this older photo of 4500 that I found later, it is pretty easy to spot the 'missing tree.'

I wonder who the two people are that you can see standing at the top of the driveway in the older photo?

Obituary Notice from the Paper

Lois Fullmer Anderson

nee Hankins

Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother

Peacefully released her Spirit to our loving God Sunday February 15 2009. Her dauntless soul never bowed to daily challenges of her three-year battle with breast cancer even while enduring her husband's lengthy illness and death. Lois loved life. She found joy in moments grand and small.

Preceded in death by her Husband of 54 years, LeRoi C. Anderson; Parents: Beatrice Spengler Hankins & Wallace Watt Hankins; Siblings: Shirley Hoggatt, Henry Hankins, Elizabeth Hankins; Child: Robert Anderson; and Grandchildren: William, Morgan, and Briana Petty. Survived by Children: Richard Anderson (Pam McIntire) of Atlanta, GA; Barbara Beske Anderson of Shoreview, MN; LeRoi C. Anderson, "Chuck" (Fiona) of Cobham, England; Siblings: Capt. Wallace Hankins Jr. (Kathy), Margaret "Dolly" Hanson, Jane Haglund (LeRoy), Kate Hankins; Stepmother: Jewel Hankins; 10 Grandchildren, 9 Great Grandchildren and the Councilman Family.

Lois Fullmer Hankins, "Tookie," was born July 24, 1928 in Duluth, grew up on Park Point, graduated Central High School and attended State Teacher's College. Lois made and kept strong friendships. She met with her Mankato Street neighbors for over 50 years. She joined New Resident's Club, White Bear Lake Women's Club, St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church when she moved to WBL and remained an active member in those groups for 49 years. Travel, luncheons, bridge, theater, meetings, golf, bowling, water aerobics and relationships made along the way fed her physical & social well-being. Summers meant July at 'the cabin' at Mascot Resort on Webb Lake. She loved to swim daily regardless of the weather because had grown up swimming in frigid waters of Lake Superior. Memorable trips include Hong Kong & Hanoi, Alaskan Cruise, Hawaii, New Jersey, California, Las Vegas and Atlanta.

Lois said recently "I am every age I have ever been". We will miss the spirited toddler, the wistful girl with French braids, the stunning beach beauty, the protective mother of three, the cheerful woman at lunch and the gracious lady of late. Her wit, warmth and wisdom will remain with us always.

Memorials to:
Courage Center St. Croix
Aquatics Program
RE: Lois Anderson Memorial
1460 Curve Crest Blvd.
Stillwater, MN 55082

St John in the Wilderness
Re: Lois Anderson Memorial
2175 First Street
White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Lois Anderson (1928-2009)

Fiona shared with you all that my mother, Lois Anderson was quite ill and that I had returned to Minnesota to be with her.

It is with great sadness that I share with you that she died on Sunday night February 15th 2009. I was able to be there, with my sister Barb and my brother Rick and my Uncle Donald (my Dad's brother). She went peacefully and that was a relief to us all.

My mother had gathered many pictures and she intended to sort, copy and share them with her family and friends. I have been fascinated by these photographs and I will try to share some of them.

Fiona shared a few of my favorite pictures. Here are a few more photos of Lois in her younger days as we reflect and remember her life.

Funeral arrangements have not been finalized. We will let you know.

Beatrice Spengler Hankins holding little Lois Hankins

Lois Hankins Anderson as a toddler

Lois headed out on the town

Sad News From Minnesota

Grandma getting ready for her golden wedding anniversary celebration

Grandma and Grandpa a while before they became Grandma and Grandpa to anyone!

Young Lois -- wow!

Well, it's my turn (Fiona) to do some posting, as our primary household blogger is not actually abroad at the moment. We had some sad news from Minnesota, prompting Chuck's return to the U.S.A. -- his mom (better known in our household as "Grandma") is not doing well. We had all been very hopeful that her cancer would slow its progression enough to allow her a visit over to see us in the U.K., but it is not to be. The cancer has spread throughout her body very rapidly. Chuck flew back to Minnesota on Tuesday to be with her, and she has now moved to the Pillars, a wonderful hospice facility not far from her home in White Bear Lake. Chuck just sent me some photos of his mom and dad from a while ago that I think evoked some fond memories...