Minnesota Unites in Mourning the Loss of Senator Bruce Anderson

“Bruce was a dedicated public servant, loving family man, and dear friend to many at the Capitol and in Buffalo.” — Sen. Mark Johnson

Minnesota lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are mourning the unexpected passing of Senator Bruce Anderson, a humble and principled leader who dedicated his life to serving his state, his country, and his community. Anderson, who represented Senate District 29, passed away on July 21, 2025.

“I’m saddened to learn Senator Bruce Anderson passed unexpectedly today,” said Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson. “Bruce was a dedicated public servant, loving family man, and dear friend to many at the Capitol and in Buffalo. We offer our condolences and prayers for comfort for the entire Anderson family.”

Senator Anderson’s long career in the Minnesota Legislature began in 1995, when he was elected to the House of Representatives. He represented Districts 19B and 19A until 2012, then was elected to the Senate in 2012, where he served faithfully until his passing. Over the course of three decades, he became a trusted voice for Greater Minnesota, championing issues such as agriculture, broadband, rural economic development, energy, and public safety.

He was the Republican lead on the State and Local Government and Veterans Committee and also served on the Elections, Agriculture, Broadband and Rural Development committees, and the Claims Subcommittee.

Democratic leaders joined in honoring Anderson’s legacy. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy said, “He was a decent, kind colleague, and a dedicated family man, and I feel fortunate to have known and worked with him.” Senator Aric Putnam added, “His kindness and deep commitment to service will be missed by all of us in the Senate and by the people of Minnesota.”

The DFL Senate caucus also released a statement recognizing Anderson’s unique contributions to veterans’ affairs, noting: “Sen. Anderson’s expertise gained through military service and background in agriculture made him a great champion for farmers, veterans, and service members at the Capitol. We will have his family and friends in our hearts.”

Anderson’s devotion to veterans was shaped by his own military experience. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, serving from 1970 to 1973 as a Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the USS Forrestal in the Mediterranean. He later joined the Minnesota Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserve, ultimately retiring in 2010 as a Master Sergeant.

In the Legislature, Anderson chaired veterans’ committees in both the House and Senate and worked across the aisle to advance policies that improved the lives of Minnesota’s veterans. His firsthand knowledge and lived experience gave weight and authenticity to his advocacy.

Raised on a dairy farm in rural Minnesota as the eldest of eight children, Anderson’s roots in agriculture were deep and personal. Before entering politics, he built a successful career in agricultural and business sales, getting to know farmers and working families throughout Wright County. He studied at North Hennepin State Community College and later earned a degree from Northwestern College (now the University of Northwestern).

He brought that same sense of grounded purpose to the Capitol, where he earned a reputation for being calm, steady, and committed to the people he served. Colleagues remember him as someone who led with principle and humility, offering guidance without ego and listening more often than speaking.

Outside the Legislature, Anderson was deeply involved in his community. He and his wife Ruth lived in Buffalo, Minnesota. Together, they raised a blended family of eight grown children and enjoyed the company of 14 grandchildren. Anderson lost his first wife, Dottie, to cancer and often spoke with compassion about the importance of family, faith, and resilience.

His passing leaves a void not only in the Minnesota Senate, but in the lives of those who knew him personally. Lawmakers across party lines expressed their admiration and respect, underscoring that Bruce Anderson’s legacy is one of service, strength, and quiet leadership.

The Anderson family has requested privacy and will release a public statement in the coming days. Funeral arrangements and opportunities for public remembrance will be shared when available.

Minnesota has lost a true public servant—but Senator Bruce Anderson’s impact will endure in the laws he helped shape, the veterans he fought for, and the communities he never stopped serving.