Lydia Rae Anderson

It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of Lydia Rae Anderson on October 20, 2024, at the age of 37. Lydia was born on May 9th, 1987, in Alexandria, MN, to Kayla Anderson and Dennis Goerdt. Lydia was just minutes older than her "womb-mate," as she used to call her twin brother, Matthew Anderson. There was never a dull moment in Lydia's childhood. She always had a playmate, whether it was Matthew, her cousins, or the neighborhood boys. Lydia graduated from West Central Area Secondary in 2005 with her high-school sweetheart, Michael Riley. After graduation, Lydia and Michael helped with the family business. Countless laughs, and even more memories now cherished by many. In the Summer of 2007, Lydia and Michael welcomed the arrival of their daughter, Haley Rae Riley. Lydia loved being a mom and adored her "Haley Rae-of-Sunshine." Lydia and Michael physically parted ways in 2017. The two remained close friends as they raised their daughter. Lydia gave birth to her son, Henry Thomas Anderson, in the fall of 2018. Lydia called Henry and Haley her "He-Ha." In 2020, Lydia met Steve Leritz. One of their favorite activities was fishing. Lydia and Steve were together until her passing. Lydia enjoyed a quiet life, but kept busy with her gardening and taking care of her many animals. Lydia relished spending time with her daughter, Haley, as well as activities with "next door neighbors" her niece, Suhvannuh and nephew, Jaece. Lydia knew how to tell a good story and was able to make anyone laugh with her sense of humor. Lydia had a big heart and cared deeply for her family. She loved taking care of them, making sure everyone was OK, had what they needed, and doing chores around the family farm. When downtime was available, Lydia appreciated a trip to the casino, usually spending quality time with her mom or Steve. A longtime resident of Wendell, MN, Lydia is survived by her daughter, Haley, parents Kayla and Dennis, significant other, Steve and their dog Cooler, brother Matthew (Amy) Anderson, nephew Jaece, niece Suhvannuh, aunts, uncles and many cousins. Lydia was greeted in Heaven by her son Henry, grandparents Stuart and Carolyn Anderson, Lorain and Lucille Goerdt, Uncle Thomas Goerdt and Michael Riley. Lydia will be missed dearly by all who knew her. A celebration of Lydia's life will be held on November 2, 2024, from 1:00-3:00pm at the Wendell Community Center. All are welcome to attend or stop by to share a memory of Lydia. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and will be used for Haley.