Kenneth "Ken" Anderson, 64, of Brainerd, formerly of St. Cloud, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at Good Samaritan Village – Bethany Campus, following a short and courageous battle with ALS.

Ken was born on July 29, 1961, in Maple Lake, Minnesota, to Harold and Elizabeth (Amos) Anderson. He graduated from Maple Lake High School and attended Bemidji State University before answering the call to serve his country. Ken enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably in the Military Police. After his discharge, he returned to Minnesota and completed his degree at St. Cloud State University.

For 28 years, Ken served as the Recreation Coordinator at the Stearns County Jail. In that role, he was dedicated to creating an environment that promoted wellness, dignity, and personal growth. It was work that suited him well, as he was a lifelong fitness enthusiast who believed in the strength of both body and spirit. He especially cherished competing in the Border 2 Border (B2B) Triathlon alongside his brother, running, biking, and canoeing across the state they loved.

Family was at the heart of Ken's life. He treasured every opportunity to guide and teach his two children, always finding meaningful moments to share life lessons. He was deeply proud to become a grandfather — a role he embraced with joy and gratitude.

Ken was known for his kindness, his steady presence, and his genuine attentiveness in conversation. He put others first and made those around him feel valued and heard. When he was diagnosed with ALS last year, he faced the journey with remarkable courage and grace. Nancy Graham, the mother of his children, stepped forward to help support and care for him — a testament to the enduring bond they shared in always placing their children's well-being above all else.

Ken and his family were deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by the staff at Good Samaritan – Bethany, the VA ALS Clinic, PVA, and Moments Hospice. Their kindness brought comfort not only to Ken, but also to his children who live thousands of miles away, assuring them that their father was surrounded by exceptional care and compassion.

Even in the face of illness, Ken chose each day with intention. He lived by a simple but powerful motto: "I choose to be happy." It was a choice he made faithfully, and one that defined the way he lived his life.

He is survived by his children, Jordan (JT) Bahadurian of Texas and Lucas Anderson (John Webb) of California; his beloved grandson, Jack Bahadurian; caregiver and friend, Nancy Graham (Greg Schuman); and his siblings, Kathy Anderson and Allan Anderson, both of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home. Interment with Military Honors will take place at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Camp Ripley.

Ken's legacy lives on in the strength he inspired, the kindness he extended, and the happiness he chose each day.