Lorie Jean Anderson

Lorie Anderson, 67 of Wendell, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Barrett Care Center.

Lorie Jean Anderson was born on May 15, 1958, to Henrietta and Harvey Anderson. Lorie grew up in rural Barrett, MN and graduated from Barrett Highschool in 1976.

After graduating high school, Lorie never really left Grant County. Having various jobs such as waitressing at the Cats Eye, Barrett Nursing Home and Mendelson's in Elbow Lake. Along the way, her outgoing personality led her to meet many great lifelong friends such as Faye Ulrich and Shelly Burgess as the list goes on and on.

In July of 1983, she married Larry Wirtjes of Herman, MN and started their family. In a little over a year in September of 1984, they welcomed their only son Lane Albert to the world. Definitely not one of the easiest jobs she has ever had but most rewarding. Being Mom was one of her greatest achievements, next to being called Grandma.

Being number six on the roster of eight kids, Lorie gained many nephews and a couple of nieces, all who held a very special spot in her heart, even gaining the title “Preacher” over the years. Time spent with her siblings was always a cherished time either at the lake or family holidays where she always brought her signature dish, the veggie tray. Whether it was doing their fake nails or simply just visiting, picking up right where they left off.

Her later years were spent with Terry enjoying their cats, sitting in the sun, and running errands. Terry made sure she got to all her appointments and drove her to South Dakota for family functions with her grandkids. Terrys' passing and declining health led to her residing at the Barrett Nursing Home in her last years. Faye, Trista, and the rest of the staff made it the best it could be.

Preceding Lorie in death are her parents Harvey and Henrietta, siblings Diane Rosby, Jerry Anderson and Tyrone Anderson; nephews Keith Fronning and Jarid Anderson.

She is survived by her son Lane Wirtjes, grandsons Braeden (Jessica), Masyn, Drake and granddaughters Andi and Charlee along with many nephews and nieces.

A Memorial Service will be held on May 16, 2026, at Lincoln Lutheran Church, Barrett. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11, with the service starting at 11:00AM. Burial following at Lincoln Lutheran Cemetery.

Arrangements by Erickson-Smith Funeral Home of Elbow Lake.