Anita Theresa Clauson, age 72, of Spring Grove, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Anita was born to Lawrence and Monica Schulte on August 1, 1953, and graduated from Waukon High School in 1971. She worked at Northern Engraving until her retirement.
She is survived by her children: Jennifer (Lance) Zafft, Jacqueline Clauson, Joseph Clauson, and Janel Benda (Adam); her grandchildren: Will and Quinn Zafft and Nalia Benda; her sisters Donna (John) and Carmel, and her brothers Dean (Marie), Lyle (Julie), Randy, Dennis and Miles (Susan). She is also survived by her former husband Neil Clauson. Anita is lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and many other cherished family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Laura, her brothers Terry and Jeffrey, her father- and mother-in-law Carlton and Valborg Clauson, her brother-in-law Russell Oakes, and her son-in-law Mark Benda.
Anita’s life was grounded in her family and her faith. She was known for her kindness, her thoughtful cards and letters, and her sense of humor. She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew her.
Her family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Gundersen Health System/Emplify in La Crosse and Spring Grove, who lovingly cared for her.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or to the family, with a designation to be decided.
Funeral services will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Caledonia, Minnesota, on Friday, June 26, at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.
Interment of Anita’s ashes will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Dorchester, Iowa, and will follow the luncheon.
McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family.
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