Anna M. Mense

June 17, 1932 - March 8, 2017

Anna Mae Mense, age 84, of Menomonie, WI passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2017 at The Neighbors of Dunn County. Anna was born on June 17, 1932 to Alvin and Agnes (Iverson) Barstad in Colfax, WI. She was baptized and confirmed at Colfax Lutheran Church. She grew up in Colfax and graduated from Colfax High School. Anna attended Dunn County Normal School in Menomonie. She taught all grade levels through 8th; at rural schools including Running Valley and Hudson Road. Anna married Jim Mense on August 15, 1954 at Colfax Lutheran Church. She worked in the Menomonie School system for 33 years as a substitute teacher and instructional Assistant. Anna was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Menomonie. She taught Sunday school, bible school, sang in the church choir and was active in PLCW activities. She worked with Brownie Scouts and Cub Scouts when her children were involved. Anna was also a member of the Red Hat Society and RCMC Volunteer. She enjoyed baking, knitting and loved to travel. Anna is survived by her husband Jim of 62 years, son Michael (Cindy), daughter Debra (canine companion Huey Rockstar), granddaughters Amanda Mense (Kory Pechacek) and Serena Mense (Ryan Olson); her sister Carol (John) Benish, sisters-in-law Helenmae (Chuck) Debee and Geraldine Mense. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Chuck Barstad, sister-in-law Donna Barstad, brother-in-law Donald Mense, nephews Jeff Barstad, Timothy Barstad, Timothy Debee and Tommy Debee, father and mother-in-law Edwin and Gala Mense. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at Peace Lutheran Church with Pastor Kristine Stedje officiating. Burial will take place at the church cemetery. There will be visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday at Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie and also one hour prior to the services at the church on Tuesday. A special thank you to the staff at The Neighbors of Dunn County for their care and compassion during Anna’s stay.