Anna "Lolly" L. Baldus Obituary (1933

Anna Lorayne “Lolly” Baldus passed away peacefully on June 16th, 2023. Lolly was the loving wife of Alvin J. Baldus, a proud mother, grandmother and great grandmother, and 90 years young. She lived a life centered in her Christian faith, and enjoyed the beauty around her. Lolly was an educator who focused on equality and inclusion, developing programs that empowered young women in science and technology careers. Born on January 13th, 1933 to Iver and Anna Reiten, who were Norwegian immigrants, Lolly was the youngest of nine siblings and grew up in Petersburg, North Dakota. She graduated from Concordia College and earned a Masters from Stout University. She worked as a Curriculum and Educator specialist throughout Minnesota. There, she met the love of her life, Al. They were married in 1959 and moved to Menomonie, which they considered home for the rest of their lives. Lolly and Al were active in the Menomonie Theater Guild, enjoyed sharing outdoor family activities, including boating and golf, and often danced spontaneously. In addition to supporting her husband’s political career, and working in Congressional offices, Lolly was a specialist of home economic curriculums at UW Stout and later wrote grants for equity programs. She also contributed generously to political causes, and volunteered in healing and spiritual programs through her church. She had a passion for social history, a vocal interest in Wisconsin politics, and a great respect for her Norwegian heritage. Lolly and Al traveled the world, making friends and appreciating cultural differences. Lolly remained active in her winter community in Mesa Arizona, where she enjoyed creative writing and visits with her family and neighbors. Lolly is survived by her children Deborah (Kevin) McGrath, Bruce (Polly), Rebecca, John (Amy), and Daniel Baldus. Further, she is remembered by her grandchildren: Kevin Patrick, Daniel (Megan), Holly, Jacqueline, Erik, Aidan, and Chloe; and by her great-grandchildren Mae and Leo. Lolly’s husband Al, their son Erik and their grandson Bruce James, precede her in death, as do her parents and siblings. Lolly’s life will be celebrated at Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie, Wisconsin for visitation on Wednesday, June 21st from 4 to 6 pm, and at a service at Our Savior's Lutheran Church on Thursday, June 22nd, at 3 pm. A half hour of visitation will precede the memorial service. Burial will be at the St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Menomonie, WI directly following the memorial. Contributions in her honor would be appreciated at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and Stepping Stones of Menomonie. To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com