Romayne Strand

Romayne (Anderson) Strand was born in Arlington, MN on October 7, 1929, to Harold and Lorna (Landeene) Anderson; she was the oldest of three. Romayne spent her early years in Arlington, then moved to Alexandria, MN, in 1945 when her family purchased the Traveler’s Inn. She worked with her family at the restaurant throughout high school and graduated in 1947. Romayne received her bachelor’s degree through attendance at Colorado Women’s College and St. Cloud State University. 

In 1951 she married Cecil Strand; they were blessed with four children. 1951 also started Romayne’s teaching career. She taught for one year in Osakis and then in Alexandria, where she taught early elementary school (mostly kindergarten, which was her favorite) until her retirement in 1990. She often mentioned that she had taught two generations of students in Alexandria, so it was good timing to stop when she did.

FINALLY, in 1999, Romayne assumed her most cherished role – she became a grandma at age 69. Her “official” title became Yedda. Being a grandma kept her active with many baking days, “adventures”, piano practice, bird watching, and ice cream dates. In 2007, she welcomed three bonus grandchildren when John and Cathy married. In subsequent years, eight bonus great-grandchildren have been added.

Romayne’s interests included playing cards, golf, gardening, and numerous community groups/activities. Until she was no longer able, she was active in her church, First Congregational Church of Christ. Retirement added bowling to her list of activities and gave her more time to play the piano. She also traveled and was a member of several Bridge groups with her best friend since high school, Joan Ballard Larson. Often it was best not to know what those two were up to when they were together, but they always had a great time!

In recent years, Romayne could be found reading a book, playing a game of cards, or sharing a sweet treat. Throughout her life, she continuously educated others with a compassionate and empathetic outlook. She never failed to make someone feel special or welcome.

Romayne passed away in her home at Grand Arbor at the age of 93 while under the care of Knute Nelson Hospice. The family would like to thank her caregivers before and after her move to Grand Arbor.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Kurt Strand, daughter Katie Broten, and brother Bill Anderson.

Romayne is survived by her children Cheryl Strand of Alexandria, and Christopher “John” (Cathy) Strand of Ramsey, daughter-in-law Becky Strand of Alexandria, granddaughters Brooke, Madison, and Olivia Strand, bonus grandchildren Leah (Travis) Schultz, Joshua (Denisa) Hancock, Caleb Hancock, eight bonus great-grandchildren, brother Jack (Sue) Anderson of Pine River along with many other friends and family members.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023, 1:00 - 2:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home with a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM.  Memorials are preferred to Alexandria Education Foundation, Douglas County Historical Society, Douglas County Library.