Edward J. Anthony

Edward J. Anthony was born in Waukegan, IL on August 27, 1942. A graduate of Bethel University, Ed also earned a Masters of Education degree from Bemidji State University. Post grad studies included time with Robert Shaw, Charles Hirt, Paul Christiansen, and John Nelson. He was one of the first national music educators to attend Julliard’s Aspen Music Festival.

Beginning in 1965 he shared his gift of music as the Director of Choral Music at Gilbert High School, Centennial High School, and then for 28 years at Park Center High School directing choirs, small groups and numerous musicals. His choirs were selected to perform at Disneyland, Disney World, the Air Force Academy Chapel, Annapolis Academy Chapel, Lincoln Memorial, and the John F. Kennedy Arts Center. Ed also served as Minister of Music at Bethlehem Baptist Church (Downtown Minneapolis), and Redeemer Covenant Church (Brooklyn Park).

Ed was an “American Picker” before it was in vogue, and enjoyed scouring garage sales and auctions in Minnesota and Florida finding hidden treasures. He was well loved by the “picker” community and enjoyed bringing a smile to strangers.

Affectionately known as “Papa Fish”, Ed loved fishing and touring Lake Minnetonka on their pontoon boat. He cherished time with his grandchildren on the boat exploring, fishing, laughing, and simply enjoying God’s creation. He will be missed by many. What we will miss most are his jokes, laughter, kind words of encouragement, piano ramblings, and witnessing his strong faith in Jesus Christ.

A memorial service was held Thursday, November 4t, 2021 at the Wooddale Church, Eden Prairie, MN. Ed is survived by wife of 58 years, Pat; children, Brad (Chris), Barry (Barbara) and Amy (Derek) Anderson; and 7 grandchildren.