Dr. Ronald A. Anderson of Fargo, North Dakota passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025 at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo. 

Ronald “Ron” Albin Anderson, 94, was born on June 4, 1931, in Friendship Township, Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota, to Albin and Ruth (née Severson) Anderson. He was baptized and confirmed at First English Lutheran Church in Clarkfield, Minnesota. Ron grew up on a dairy farm near Clarkfield alongside his five siblings, where he developed a lifelong work ethic and love of learning.

Ron graduated from Clarkfield High School in 1949 and, after one year of college, enlisted in the United States Air Force at the outbreak of the Korean War. He served for three years with the Occupation Forces in Germany as a radar operator and crew chief. Ron was honorably discharged in 1954 with the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Following his military service, Ron pursued higher education with dedication and distinction. He attended California State Polytechnic University and South Dakota State University, earning his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from North Dakota Agricultural College (NDAC). He went on to receive his master’s degree from North Dakota State University and his PhD from Washington State University.

Ron began his professional career at NDSU in 1960, developing background information for the newly formed North Dakota Wheat Commission. In 1963, he joined the NDSU Extension Service, where he spent the next 30 years serving the people of North Dakota. During his tenure, Ron developed the state’s first computerized farm record system and delivered a wide range of educational programs in every county. He deeply valued his work and especially cherished the relationships he formed with county extension staff.

In 1970 Ron and his family moved to their home on 26th Avenue North in Fargo. There, they formed close, long-lasting friendships with their neighbors. Ron and Hallie were also devoted members of Elim Lutheran Church. Ron served as president and secretary of the church council, participated on numerous congregational committees, and sang in the choir for over 50 years. He was also active in synod-wide stewardship efforts. His community involvement included membership in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Swedish Heritage Society, Sons of Norway, and the Golden K Kiwanis Club.

After retiring in 1993, Ron devoted himself to music and service to others. He played the baritone horn for more than 25 years with the Red River Valley Veterans Concert Band. He also shared his talents on the accordion with the El Zagal German Band and at Scandinavian festivals. Together with his beloved wife, Hallie, Ron entertained at senior meal sites, assisted living centers, nursing homes, and memory care units, bringing joy through music wherever they went.

Ron was an amazing and devoted father who cherished time with his family. He brought smiles to many when playing accordion for his grandchildren’s preschool and elementary classrooms. He created countless memories through camping and fishing adventures at Camper’s Point, Birchwood, and Rose Haven. He loved sharing his passion for the outdoors with those he loved.

He had many interests, including music, fishing, camping, skiing, and golfing. Ron was also a proud Bison Team Maker at North Dakota State University, faithfully attending hundreds of basketball and football games in support of student-athletes. His life was enriched by meaningful friendships and deep fellowship at Elim Lutheran Church, where he found community, faith, and lasting connections. Above all, Ron found great joy in spending time with family and supporting them in all of their life’s adventures and extracurricular activities.

Ron was preceded in death by his dear wife, Hallie, who grew up on a neighboring farm in Yellow Medicine County. He is survived by his daughter, Beth of Moorhead, Minnesota; sons, Paul (Kate) of Whitefish, Montana, and Mark (Amie) of Almont, Colorado; sisters, Beverly Heemstra of Sheldon, Iowa, and Carroll Albertson of Burlington, Vermont; brothers, Dale of Bend, Oregon, and Charles of Clarkfield, Minnesota; grandchildren, Jett (Mia) Wolf, Finn (Mikayla) Anderson, Brianna Melle, Milissa Melle (Christian Williams); members of Hallie’s extended family; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ron will be remembered for his faith, service, intellect, love of music, and unwavering commitment to family and community. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home at 215 7th St South in Fargo from 1-2pm and memorial service at 2pm. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home website. Refreshments following. All are welcome. Interment will be at Clarkfield Cemetery, Clarkfield, Minnesota.