Allen Marion Vanderby

Allen Marion Vanderby, a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, at the Vivie Care Center in Alexandria, MN at the age of 83. Born on January 22, 1942, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, he was the son of Marion and Helen (Schnetzer) Vanderby. After graduating from Ringsted High School in 1960, Allen's life was forever changed when he met the love of his life, Dona Barie, at the People’s Café in Estherville, Iowa. They were married on October 1, 1961, at the United Methodist Church in Superior, Iowa, and together they built a warm and loving family. Allen was a dedicated father to his three children: Terry, Tammy and Tanya. He worked hard to provide for his family, first as a parts manager at Bellanca AirCraft in Alexandria and later as a driver for Twin City Passenger, ensuring travelers reached the Minneapolis Airport safely.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Allen found joy in hunting, fishing, and tending to his flowers. He could often be found mowing the lawn or enjoying the simple pleasure of watching birds and deer in his yard. He and Dona cherished their time together at the casino and traveling in their camper. A friendly card game with neighbors was always a favorite pastime. Family was everything to Allen; he frequently remarked, “Nothing is more important than family." He cherished the moments spent with his loved ones, especially visits from his grandkids, and had a special fondness for indulging in ice cream loaded with toppings.

He is survived by his children: Terry (Denise) Vanderby of Glenwood, Tammy (Larry) Gettel of Osakis, and Tanya (Dane) Hagen of Alexandria. He leaves behind eight grandchildren who adored him—Nathan (Andreea) Vanderby, Travis (Bailey) Vanderby, Tyler (Megan) Vanderby, Jeffrey Soupir, Jocelyn (Wade Bergerud) Gettel, Evan Gettel, Lexi (Trevor Olafson) Hagen, and Mariah Hagen—as well as nine great-grandchildren who will carry his legacy forward Nicholas, William, Bryson, Case, Ava, Declan, Jane, Easton, and Brynlee. He is also survived by his sisters, Elaine (Russ) Alberg and Joyce (Ted) Friedrich; brother-in-law, Dennis (Judy Klemm) Barie; sister-in-law, Joan Barie, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Allen was preceded in death by his wife Dona Vanderby; his parents; grandson Jeremy Gettel, daughter-in-law Bernice Vanderby, and his brother-in-law, David Barie. Allen Vanderby will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will remain with all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will take place at the Anderson Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 5-7 PM and continue one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

A Celebration of Allen’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 11 AM at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel in Alexandria.

Interment will be in the Nelson Cemetery.