Ila Mae Anderson

Ila Mae Anderson was born on January 4, 1939, to Kema (Hegan) and Oscar Undahl. She was later adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle, Elma (Hegan) and John Leverson. Ila grew up on the family farm in Lake Mills, Iowa.

She attended Bethany College with hopes of becoming a kindergarten teacher, but life ultimately led her in a different direction. Ila pursued a career as a hairstylist, eventually transforming her garage into a home-based beauty shop. There, she was able to do what she loved while building lasting friendships and relationships with the many people who sat in her chair over the years.

Ila married and made Minnesota her home, where she and her husband welcomed two children and built their family.

Ila had an adventurous spirit and a love for traveling. She was also an avid photographer, and sunsets were among her favorite things to capture. Of all the places her travels took her, San Diego, California, held a particularly special place in her heart.

There was never a dull moment when you joined Ila on one of her adventures. Somehow, she always managed to find herself in the good kind of trouble—and there was usually a great story to tell afterward.

Ila was also fiercely competitive, especially when a game of Aggravation was involved. If you sat down at the table to play with her, you had better be ready to play to win.

She loved Mickey Mouse, being near the ocean, going to the theater, and watching a good, happy movie. She appreciated the simple things that brought joy to life—a beautiful sunset, a new adventure, a good laugh, and time spent with the people she loved.

Above all, Ila’s faith was an important part of who she was. She believed deeply in her faith and was never afraid to share it with those around her. It remained a source of strength and comfort throughout her life.

Ila passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026, surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings; her grandson, Brady Forney; and many dear friends who were undoubtedly waiting to welcome her home.

Ila’s memory will live on through her children, Mark (Julie) Anderson and Rhonda (Brian) Williams; her grandchildren, Allison (Keith) Guy, Taylor (Vanessa) Williams, Alysha Anderson, Karington Widmer, and Austin Forney; and her great-grandchildren, Olivia Anderson, Nala Widmer, Keanu Williams, and Harper Williams. She is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Those who knew Ila will remember her deep faith, adventurous spirit, love of photography and sunsets, competitive streak, contagious smile and laugh, and the stories that seemed to follow wherever she went. She lived a life filled with faith, family, laughter, adventure, and plenty of moments worth remembering.

Grandma, go and “Check It Out” for us.

Visitation will be held 10-11 AM with Memorial Service beginning at 11 AM, Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Christ the Lord, 9998 90th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. A luncheon will follow at 12 PM.