Anker A. Leifsen, 89, of Redfield, SD, died Monday, April 16, 2007, at the Eastern Star Home in Redfield, SD. His memorial service will be Saturday, May 12, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Redfield. Reverend Stephen Perry will officiate. There will be full military rites outside of the church. Thelen Funeral Home of Redfield is in charge of arrangements. (www.thelenfuneralhome.com)

Anker was born June 20, 1917 in Illinois to Anker E. and Gertrude (Olsen) Leifsen. He graduated from high school in Bloomdale, Michigan, in 1934. After graduation he farmed with his family before working as a structural iron worker apprentice for the Milwaukee Railroad System for a few years. Anker married Mary Jane Compton January 27, 1940 in Davenport, IA. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. After his discharge, Anker and Mary Jane moved to Tulare, SD and started a blacksmith business. Anker worked as a blacksmith/welder for many years in Tulare and Redfield. He later worked for the South Dakota Developmental Center-Redfield in the paint shop. After his retirement, Anker and Mary Jane moved to their cabin home on Cottonwood Lake near Redfield.

Anker was a member of the Paul A. Schleher VFW Post #2755, Masonic Lodge and Yelduz Shrine.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and all outdoor activities.

Anker is survived by his wife Mary Jane Leifsen of Redfield, one son Anker K. (Lori Ortbahn) Leifsen of Cottonwood Lake, three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister.