Donald R. Anderson

HAMILTON - Don R. Anderson, 82, of Hamilton, MT, passed away November 10, 2009 at Discovery Care Centre of natural causes. Don was born May 9, 1927 in Butte, MT, the son of the late Raymond and Dorothy (Waight) Anderson.

Don was also preceded in death by his sisters, Elaine Lois Shea of Butte, Dorothy Anderson Benoy of North Carolina and stepdaughter, Holly Lynn Drensfeldt.

Don is survived by his wife of 43 years, Helen, of Hamilton, a step-son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Pam Dransfeldt of Camarillo, CA; a step-daughter, Sue Mitchell of Boston, MA; and two grandsons, Jeffrey Dransfeldt of Camarillo, CA and Cory Dransfeldt of Camarillo, CA. He is also survived by his niece, Lisa Shea of Butte and nephews, Dennis Shea and wife Stephanie of Helena, David Shea of Missoula, and Christopher Shea and wife Debra of Butte.

Don was born and raised in Butte, Mt. After high school, he was drafted into the service during World War II and served on a Harbor Craft Unit and received an honorable discharge from the Army after service in Seattle, WA. He worked for ITT Cannon Electric for many years as a General Foreman in manufacturing while earning his AA Degree from Los Angeles City College. Don also worked with the Sambo's organization in California for many years. Together with his wife Helen, Don joined the Almar, Ltd Organization, the largest operator of salt water marinas on the West coast. Don and his wife managed facilities both in Ventura and Alameda, CA. While in Alameda Don was active in the Elks, Rotary and the Boys and Girls Club. Don was also a member of Rocky Mountain Grange #116 of Hamilton.

After moving to Hamilton to retire, he worked part-time for MS transportation as a school bus driver for games and activities. He also drove during the fire season and had the pleasure of meeting crews who came from all over the country to assist in putting out the fires.

Don will be fondly remembered by his fellow "Lost Weekend" members who will toast "Wilbur" for his 25 years of attendance for the annual weekend of golfing, gambling, story-telling and all around great fun in the Lake Tahoe area.

The family would like to thank the staff at Discovery Care Center of Hamilton for their kindness and excellent care in caring for Don during his time as a resident.

The family suggests that memorials be made to Supporters of Abuse Free Environments SAFE), P.O. Box 534, Hamilton 59840. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.