Virginia Anderson, 96, Owatonna
Virginia (“Ginna”) Pauline Anderson, 96, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully at Birchwood Cottages, Owatonna, on Feb. 28, 2026. Ginna will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering integrity, love for her family, and the ability to make everyone who crossed her path feel appreciated. Her gentle smile and warm hugs were gifts to everyone who knew her.
Ginna was born Aug. 4, 1929, in White Bear Lake, to Clarence and Emma (Rohde) Zwerenz. She captivated us with her stories of canoeing, sailing, camping, and working the soda fountain at her dad’s pharmacy.
In 1951, Ginna graduated from Macalester College with a degree in Education. She dedicated 21 years to the Owatonna School District, impacting students’ lives with her incredible methods of teaching English, Speech, Debate, and Drama. While teaching full-time and raising her five children, she completed her master’s degree in English from Mankato State University. Ginna was a source of love and strength to her children. In June of 1991, she retired from teaching and became “Nanny” to her beloved grandchildren. Active in the community, Ginna continued to collect and sell antiques and volunteer her time and talents to the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), the Associated Church, and Senior Place. Ginna enjoyed playing bridge, reading, attending live theater, traveling, spending time with friends, and the coffee pot was always on!
Ginna’s family is grateful for the staff at Birchwood Cottages and Ecumen Hospice for the incredible love and care extended to their dear mother.
Ginna is lovingly survived by her five children: Robert “Bob” Danielson of Owatonna; Thomas Danielson of Circle Pines; Paula (Greg) Kern of Simsbury, Conn.; Ellen Jacobson of Ellendale; and Diana (Todd) Nappe of Warrensburg, Mont.; eight grandchildren: Brian Kern, Anna (Connor) Cuskaden, Anders “Andy” (Kelli) Jacobson, Greta Jacobson (Roger Janusiak), Tanner Nappe, Gunny Nappe, Dalton (Sarah) Nappe, and Eli Nappe; two great-grandchildren: Brielle and Brindle Jacobson; nieces and nephews; close family friend, Candy Pogones; and Danielson grandchildren: Aaron, Derek, Emily, and Brandon. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Evan Jacobson; son-in-law, John Jacobson; sister and brother-in-law, Norma and Norman Pippin; nephew, Steven Pippin; and her parents, Clarence and Emma Zwerenz.
All are welcome to join the family in a celebration of Ginna’s life on May 18, 2026, at the Associated Church in Owatonna. The service is at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be at Forest Hill Cemetery after the service.
Memorials are preferred to Steele County 4-H or the Owatonna Public Library Foundation.
For more information or to leave an online condolence message go to www.megercares.com.