Julie Mae Anderson, 74, formerly of Houston, Minn., passed away at her home on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, following a brief illness. She was born December 11, 1943, to Paul and Glenis (Sather) Anderson of Houston. She graduated from Houston High School and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colo. Following graduation, she married William Smith, who graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. They later divorced. Tragically, their only daughter, Heather Lynne, was killed in a skiing accident at the age of 14.
Julie taught French and enjoyed traveling to Montreal, Canada, several times with her students. She later received her real estate license and worked with Edina Realty until she set up her own agency. Julie also attended Sancto Sophia Seminary in Tahlequah, Okla., and was an ordained minister. After she retired, she received her certification to teach English as a second language in China, where she lived and taught at a university for four years. Julie loved to travel and visited Paris, France, and other European countries several times. She also enjoyed the theater, symphony, and walking every day with friends.
Julie is survived by first cousins Mary (Loren) Thomas and Jenelle Lemke, both of Houston; numerous second and third cousins, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Arlyn and her daughter Heather.
A memorial service will be held at the River Towers in Minneapolis, and a private burial will be held at Silver Creek Cemetery, rural Houston.
Hoff Funeral and Cremation Service in Houston is assisting the family with arrangements.