Anderson, Justin Thomas Age 34. Our dear son passed away June 27th. He was so loved by all who knew him and we are heartbroken by this loss. He had a brilliant mind, every goal he set he reached, whether it was music, gymnastics, or mastering the Italian language. While in high school Justin wrote a Libretto and completed over 30 minutes of music. The piece was a finalist in the Morton Gould Young Composers Awards. Justin graduated in the top ten from Minnetonka High School and accepted a scholarship to Illinois Wesleyan University. After 1 year Justin transferred to the University of Minnesota to pursue his double major, while working full time. He was consistently on the Dean's list and became a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He graduated from the U of M with Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees. Justin loved everything Italian and attended the University of Bologna for 6 months. He traveled to Italy many times and performed with a summer Opera program in 2007. In 2008 Justin received a full scholarship to the University of Chicago and received his Masters Degree in 2009. In Justin's words "Uncovering my passion for Opera and Italy laid out the direction of my life. I see the path in front of me, I will not let anything stand in my way." Justin recently achieved his dream job at the Italian Consulate in Chicago, becoming the only American citizen to work there. He continued to participate in gymnastics and played the flute with an ensemble. A Celebration of Life was held in Chicago at Lakeview Presbyterian Church on July 1st. The church was filled with loving friends who shared many stories and kind words about Justin. Compassionate, generous, kind, amazing friend, inspiring "he made me a better person". Justin is survived by his loving parents Pete and Mary, brother Ryan and his wife Kali, and loving uncle to Hailey and Cody. He will be missed by relatives and friends around the world. Minnesota services are pending. "If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever"