Walz orders flags at half-staff in remembrance of Olmsted County deputy

Gov. Tim Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on Tuesday to honor the life of Olmsted County Detention Deputy Mark Anderson.

Anderson, who spent 11 years working for the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office in the Adult Detention Center, died on the job on April 15 in what was described as a medical-related event. He was 52 years old.

Mark Anderson

“Detention Deputy Anderson was a gentle giant of a man who was respected greatly by his colleagues and by detainees,” reads the proclamation issued by Walz. “With its deepest gratitude, the State of Minnesota recognizes Detention Deputy Mark Anderson for his dedicated service to and sacrifice for his fellow Minnesotans. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, and the community.”

The Sheriff’s Office says “Big Mark,” a native of the Stewartville area, was known for his “diligence, patience, and ability to talk to anyone.”

To honor his legacy, all U.S. and Minnesota flags at state and federal buildings will be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday. Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags in remembrance of Anderson.

Walz’z order follows Minnesota Statutes, Section 1.51, which says flags must be flown at half-staff following the death of a public safety officer or Minnesota military personal killed in the line of duty in Minnesota.

Cover photo licensed via Canva