Audrey M. Anshus Obituary (1927 - 2010)

Audrey M. Anshus Audrey M. Anshus, age 82, was born April 30, 1927, in Ellsworth, WI to Gertrude Anne Harlander and Andrew John Harlander. On April 14th she passed away from cancer, surrounded by her family at her home in Menomonie. She was several weeks shy of her 83rd birthday. Audrey grew up in Ellsworth. She graduated in 1945 from Ellsworth High School and later attended Stout State University earning a BA in textiles. Although meeting John in her early teens while at a skating rink in Ellsworth, John and Audrey met again and began dating while she was attending Stout. Shortly after graduation in 1949, they married. Losing both her parents and a brother at such a young age, Mom always dreamed of having a large, loving family and she often mentioned she was so blessed by the way her life developed. It was more than she could ever have imagined. Shortly after marriage she followed John to Tacoma, Wash. while he was in the military. After John's discharge they moved back to Menomonie, settling into a small apartment for a short time before moving next door to Dad's parents where they began raising their family. Mom had such a beautiful creative side that was enjoyed by her family and many friends. She was well known for her artistic window displays in the family business. People would often stop in and comment on them, and many times the family was told that customers like to drive past the store to see the window displays. Growing up our family spent many wonderful summers boating and camping on the St. Croix River, and winters skiing. Many Caribbean vacations were enjoyed by the family along with wonderful backyard gatherings. Mom and Dad enjoyed motorcycle trips together. Mom loved to garden and nurture her yard. It was and is a beautiful testament of her love to all. She loved nature, bird watching and being outside. She was known for her wonderful cooking, and every gathering was a delicious bounty. Grandkids appreciated her special cookies and cakes that she made for them. She was patient, loving and taught us all with a gentle hand, filling our home and hearts with her kindness and love. Mom created beautiful memories, and our hearts will always be filled by her love. She will be deeply missed by all. Audrey is survived by her husband, John; daughter, Paula (Jerry) Frisch and their children, Andrea, Ryan and Lauren of Sandy, UT; daughter, Susan (Charles) Varani and their daughter, Kiran of Eugene, OR; son, Gregg (Amy Donahoe) Anshus and their children Brianne and Danielle of Rochester, MN; daughter, Amy (Mike) Van Rite and their children Michael and Taylor of Green Bay, WI; Lisa (David) Frank and their children Erik and Emi of Menomonie, WI; one brother, Dr. Doug Harlander of Frederick, WI.; several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Donald Harlander. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 pm on Friday, April 23, 2010 at First Congregational UCC in Menomonie with Rev. Rob MacDougall officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service with a reception following the celebration. The family would love to share memories. Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie is serving the family. A private family interment of cremains will be held at a later date. Audrey's family would like to express their thanks to the care providers, especially Dr. Carrie Nelson, Wendy and Rob MacDougall, Red Cedar Medical Center, Luther Midelfort Hospital, Northwest Wisconsin HomeCare, and Hospice who provided care in so many ways to Audrey and her family - making this sorrowful journey less difficult. In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be sent to the American Cancer Society. To express condolences online, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com