Mary Anderson

Mary Lou (Brewer) Anderson was born August 1, 1933 to Charles Francis and Elva Dell (Mullins) Brewer in Whitebreast Township in Lucas County, near Chariton. She was the fourth of five children. Her early years were spent on the family farm, prior to her family moving to Chariton in 1945. She graduated from Chariton High School in 1951. On August 8, 1953, she married Donald Nelson Anderson of Humeston, IA in Lordsburg, NM, where they lived for several years. Upon returning to Chariton, Mary was employed at the Chariton Newspapers, prior to serving as Secretary of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) for many years. Mary moved to Des Moines in 1987 after her husband's death in 1985. She was employed by the Federal Government, working for the IRS, Army Recruiting Batallion and General Services. She later worked nine years as a salesperson for Younkers. Throughout her life, Mary taught herself many skills and crafts, and shared those talents and gifts with others. She volunteered for many of her children's school and outside interests. Mary especially adored her three grandchildren and loved attending their many activities. Mary was a member of the Christian Church in Chariton for 35 years, later transferring her membership to Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Mary is survived by her son, D. Eric Anderson of West Des Moines; daughter Kristi Rojohn and husband, Jake of West Des Moines; grandchildren, Samantha Anderson, Sydney Anderson and Jacob Rojohn; sister, Irene Gripp and husband Doyle of Chariton; sister-in-law Mary Brewer of Omaha; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Anderson parents, and siblings (Francis Neil Brewer, Karrol Mae Hudson and Kenneth J Brewer). A Celebration of Life Service will be 11:30 a.m., Friday, February 7, 2014 at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Inurnment will be in Chariton Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m., Thursday February 6, 2014 at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Memorial contributions may be directed to Unity Point Hospice or the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Condolences may be shared at www.pierschbacherfuneralhome.com