I knew that something wasn’t right when I didn’t receive a Christmas card from Don this year. 
I first met Don & Betty as their banker many years ago in Mesa. They were the sweetest couple and we’ve kept in touch for over 20 years since I moved away from Arizona. You left this world a better place, rest in peace Don.

Daddy remembered High School fondly. He was a football player. He was in the Naval Reserves during part of his Junior and his senior year and graduated and left the next day fully enlisted. He changed branches after being shipped out the following summer, knowing the Navy did not agree with him, he left for the Air force in the fall, he served proudly through peace and the Korean War. During his time in the service he married Betty Lou, she had David while he was serving in Korea, and he was promoted to Sergeant. The year he left the Air Force he attended the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy and was assigned to his first Post in Ashland, Ohio 2 months, before his daughter was born. After 3 Years on the OSHP he had another son, Scotty.  Family now complete with his Wife and three Brats as it is known the ranks, with each having their own Unit numbers. Dad had a long career, worked long and hard hours, with many promotions during some of the most turbulent times in recent history, and being promoted to Staff Lieutenant. After his retirement at age 53 the grass never grew under Dad's feet. He went to work for the Timken family Estates as farm security, and later, in addition, farm coordinator. They lived on the Timken farm and we had so many good memories enjoying the country life. Then, retired again, they moved back to town, he took another job working in a funeral home. In 2004 we welcomed them to Arizona .

Dad was all about family. He was a devoted to all of us he called family. When we were very young we loved spending time with him. He played games with us inside and outside throughout the seasons, we went on picnics, even if he had to show up in uniform. Sometimes he even had time at home on holidays in uniform, We often went to state parks for the day, he cooked breakfast and supper on a the grill, followed by hiking and canoeing. When we were able to take vacations or trips or just go to the drive in, or the lake, he made every part of it special, by singing songs in the car, laughing out loud, or telling stories. Growing up I used to tell myself, my Dad was more important than a Doctor, or President of the United States, and he was! As a Grandfather he continued these fun times with his Grandkids.

Norma I  am so sorry to hear of Don passing. My the Lord be with you at this difficult time, and his family. ♥️♥️♥️  Jeannie Reiner🙏🙏🙏

Thinking of you with the passing of sweet Uncle Don. He never failed to make us feel special, whether that was through cards for every holiday and birthdays, phone calls, and letters! I will never forget our family trip to AZ to visit when I was little, seeing the Grand Canyon & visiting! He made the whole trip so fun, making sure I had fun the whole time sight seeing & taking me to the kid’s museums. I will love him, always! ❤️

For the only reason Dad aspires to fortune and success
Is to make the family proud of him and bring them happiness 
And like our heavenly Father, he's a guardian and a guide, 
Someone that we can count on to be always on our side.

Helen Steiner Rice

Uncle Don, it was so much easier writing my letters to you when I could fill you in on what was happening in my life…..where to start is the difficult part for me today. You already know what we are doing because you will forever be looking down and you’ll be enjoying our life as it happens. You were more than an “Uncle” to me, you were a father figure, suggestion provider, mentor and so much more. You always let me know how proud you were of me, Bill and Emily. There was never a time when you’d come visit that you weren’t ready for a project (big or small). My life has been immensely blessed by you. You gave the best hugs and always wore the biggest smile.  You will be greatly missed. I know one day I will see you again. Thank you for the love and support you always provided. Love always Cindy ❤️

Don was the first to welcome my husband and I into Central Presbyterian in Massillon, OH. He was a true role model. Sending love and prayers to his whole family.

God knew what he was doing when he created Don. Truly one of a kind to be matched by none.
Such a kind heart always nothing but praise for others.
I am glad that I had the privilege to get to know Don and become a friend of his and I will miss him dearly. 
He became my mentor and I valued his opinion on many things and always looked to him for inspiration. 
He will be missed by many.
Godspeed Sir.

Little did we know that when my dad mentored  Don into the patrol we would all become neighbors in Ashland and lifetime friends.  After many moves for both families , my dad and Don retired in the same city of Massillon from the State Highway Patrol.  I think Don would tell you one of his biggest griefs was keeping his daughter and I out of mischief.  Love u all.  Thoughts and prayers for the whole family.  We loved and will miss u greatly.

What a wonderful soul, Don you will be missed Greatly, I appreciate everything about you, Thank You for being My Friend. I love you and Norma so much, Again Thank You 
                     Kimberly Rohret

Rest well Don. You are home with your Lord and Savior. Our family was so blessed to have known you.  Our thoughts and prayers to the family. Sincerely - Kathy, F. Lynn, Stephen and Godchild Katie Jaberg

OBITUARY

Donald Richard Anweiler

June 6, 1929 – June 16, 2025

Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park & Funeral Care

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