James "Jimmy" Anderson

James "Jimmy" Anderson, age 56, of New Market, MN, passed away on May 27, 2025, at his home surrounded by family.

A Time of Gathering will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 PM, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation (4565 Pleasant St SE) in Prior Lake, MN. A Christian Funeral will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM with an additional Time of Gathering from 10:00-10:45 AM at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Fish Lake (20200 Fairlawn Avenue) in Prior Lake, MN. Rev. Dr. Brent Parrish will preside. Jimmy will be laid to rest at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials are preferred and will be distributed in honor of Jimmy.

James Jason Anderson was born on May 16, 1969, in Cannon Falls, MN, to Everell "Andy" and Patricia (Busacker) Anderson. Best known as Jimmy, he was the second of four children. Jimmy grew up in Prior Lake and formed a strong interest as a young boy working on cars, motorcycles, and other engines.

Jimmy graduated from Prior Lake High School in 1987. Taking his love of tinkering on engines, he worked as a mechanic and often filled in as a driver for the family business, Anderson Bus Company. Jimmy spent 25 years in building maintenance at the Prior Lake School System. Starting with night shifts at the district office and HeadStart, he advanced to Grainwood Elementary, Glendale Elementary, and finally as Head Custodian at Hidden Oaks Middle School. He was highly respected and implemented many improvements at each school he oversaw along the way.

Jimmy had a passion for hunting and both summer and winter fishing, particularly at Karl’s Lake. He transformed his garage into a Man Cave, where he took great pride in making it special. This space became a central location for playing cards with friends and served as a gathering spot for neighbors and family. Jimmy was proud to be an uncle. He enjoyed watching his nieces play softball and volleyball and attending his nephew's high school performances.

Jimmy worked hard and played hard every day. He always valued family time, often recalling memories on the farm, at the bus company, and sharing stories with a good laugh. Jimmy had an “I can fix that" attitude and loved woodworking, making special toys and furniture for his nieces and nephews. He was never afraid to tackle a DIY landscaping or remodeling project.

Jimmy’s famous line was "It is what it is!" and his best advice would be "Take time to do it right the first time!" He will be forever missed!

Jimmy will be missed by his parents, Andy and Patty Anderson; sister, Suzann (Troy) Callanan and their son, Joseph; brother, David (Jamee) Anderson and their daughters Maryn and Claire; brother, Tommy (Lindsay) Anderson and their daughters Riley and Piper; other relatives and friends.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his grandparents; and aunt, Judy Busacker.