In Memory
Anthony (Tony) Lee Andersen ’57

December 10, 1935 - September 20, 2005

Reflections from his daughter, Amy Andersen ’88.

A local boy and Murray High School graduate (Class of ’53), Tony earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration from Macalester in 1957. Though he lived at home in St. Anthony Park during his four years as a Scot, he was still very involved in many school clubs and activities. He competed in ski jumping, serving as captain of the ski team for at least one year. He enjoyed participating in weekend outings with the Ski Club as well, traveling to ski areas in Minnesota, Michigan and points beyond.

Tony experienced great pleasure as a photographer for The Mac Weekly. He shot many rolls of film at various campus activities and did his own darkroom work as well. His love of both skiing and photography continued throughout his life and were passed down to his daughter Amy (’88), and grandchildren Caleb (10) and Shelby (15). Shelby will use her grandfather’s old SLR camera this summer in a beginning photography class at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.

While at Mac, Tony met Alice Wallien ’57 on a 1956 trip to Mexico called “The Mexican Caravan.” According to Alice, Señor Dassett, a Spanish professor and chaperone on the trip, happened upon Alice and Tony having an innocent conversation in Tony’s room. Convinced there was something more than innocent going on, he commented, “Is this necessary?!” They were married from 1957-1970, and had one daughter.

Tony went on to achieve great success as a salesman for H.B. Fuller Company, ultimately retiring in 1999 from his role as Board Chair. During his many years with the company, Tony wore a broad variety of hats — from paste jar labeler to president and CEO. Tony never had “free time.” If he wasn’t working for Fuller, he was helping a local non-profit, painting with a Paint-a-thon group, working as the Honorary Counsel from Minnesota to Costa Rica, or enjoying a quiet moment fly-fishing. Many folks have commented, “Tony always had something going!”

Tony succumbed to lung cancer during his 69th year. He passed peacefully away at his home in St. Paul on September 20, 2005. He added great joy and richness to many lives.