Aanenson, Eric E. A true Renaissance man, Eric, age 77, passed away August 17, 2021. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Vernon Oliver and Margaret (Holk) Aanenson and one brother Gary Aanenson. After graduating with a degree in Physics from University of Minnesota in the late 1960s, Eric went on to become a laser researcher in the missile division at Lockheed Industries based in San Francisco. During that time, Eric dedicated himself to furthering his education, graduating with an MBA in the early 1970s from Santa Clara State University. He soon became Operations Manager for Liquide Air (US Division). In 1974, Eric chose to return to Minnesota, joining his family-owned company, Old Dutch Foods, the second largest snack food company in North America, to work in plant operations. He quickly advanced to Chief Operating Officer and Co-Chair of Old Dutch in Canada. In 1998 Eric advanced to become Chief Operating Officer for the United States as well. Eric added to his credentials by actively volunteering in his field's professional associations throughout his career. This commitment to advancing the snack food industry culminated in his serving as Chairman of the Canadian Snack Food Association for two years during the late 1970s. Never a deep sea fisherman, but always the true physicist, Eric invented a unique deep sea fishing lure for which he held three patents. This lure was tested and proven successful numerous times, but most proudly by catching an 800 pound Yellowfin Tuna while it was in use. Along with an extremely active professional career, Eric held a close relationship with both of his parents. He greatly enjoyed annual hunting and fishing trips with his father into the wilds of Canada from a young age through his adulthood. These trips instilled within Eric a lasting love and respect of nature. Conversely, his mother introduced Eric to the classical musical arts. After going to his first Opera production, Eric developed a lifelong passion for Grand Opera, annually providing financial support to numerous arts organizations including the Metropolitan Opera and the Minnesota Opera. In fact, Eric brought the first fully produced opera performance to the Island of Maui in Hawaii in an effort to introduce the Island's residents to this form of art. His generous donation to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center funded this successful endeavor. Eric's early dream was to become a concert pianist. However, after a tragic car accident in 1961, three of his fingers were amputated. While ending this career dream, Eric learned to rewrite piano master works to be played with only seven fingers. He enjoyed being an exceptional pianist throughout his life. Those listening to his performances would rarely recognize that he was mentally making alterations to the notes as he played to compensate for his disability. Eric's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 17 years, Tracy; son Chad (Carmen) Aanenson, son Marc (Cindy) Aanenson; stepson Matthew Wolfe Santori; stepdaughter Maria (Cole Santos) Wolfe. In addition, Eric enjoyed his 10 grandchildren: Joshua (Laura) Cervantes, Jacqueline Cervantes, David Aanenson, Hallie Aanenson, Sarah Aanenson, William Santos, Elysia Santos, Marcus Santos, Amara Santos, and Dominic Santori. Eric also was extremely close to his brother Steve (Beverly) Aanenson and his only niece, Stephanie Aanenson. A Celebration of Life event will be held a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are preferred to the "Eric E. Aanenson Metabolic Research Fund" at the University of Minnesota Foundation, 200 Oak Street, Suite 500, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455. www.Washburn-McReavy.com New Brighton Chapel 651-636-9821