Don R. Anderson

Don R. Anderson passed away unexpectedly at Lifecare Rehabilitation Center in Casper on March 25, 2024. He was 92 years of age.

Don Anderson and his twin sister, Ardie Larson, entered the world on a wintry Christmas Day in 1931, in a humble log homestead cabin nestled three miles from Encampment, Wyoming. Born to Ellen and Maurice Anderson, the twins joined their two older sisters, making for a bustling household.

At the age of six, the family relocated to the grandest residence in Encampment, a picturesque Victorian abode adorned with intricate gingerbread trimmings. Don and Ardie commenced their educational journey in Encampment until eighth grade, after which they ventured to Campion Academy and later Shelton Academy in Nebraska, following the footsteps of their elder sisters, graduating from high school in 1949.

Don's quest for knowledge led him to Union College in Nebraska, Sierra College in California, the University of Wyoming, and various technical institutions in Los Angeles, California, while summers were dedicated to working amidst the serene Snowy Range Mountains, assisting his father in logging operations. The allure of the woods remained ever-present.

In 1955, a serendipitous blind date introduced Don to Janice Chamberlain in Laramie, Wyoming, culminating in marriage. Settling down, Don pursued a degree at the University of Wyoming, graduating in 1958 from the College of Pharmacy with honors, a testament to his dedication. Subsequently, he embarked on a fulfilling career, working at Town & Country Pharmacy, Walgreens Drug, Horn Drug, Ray's Pharmacy, and finally establishing his own venture, Don's Drugs, which thrived until his retirement in 1993.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Don was deeply devoted to his faith as a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, finding strength and community in its teachings. He also participated in various organizations including the JC's, Chamber of Commerce, pharmacy associations, Elk's Club, Genealogy Club, Whirlwind RV Club, Escapee's RV Club, and the Natrona County Historical Society. Additionally, he volunteered at the Natrona County Public Library and the Western History Center.

Don and Janice's zest for life manifested in their extensive travels across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Mexico. For two decades, they embraced the winters in warmer climes, finding solace in their cherished cabin near Crimson Dawn, purchased in 1969, where Don reveled in his role as a steward of the forest.

Following his passing, Don is survived by his beloved wife, Janice, their daughter Kathy (Pete) Buell of Casper, son Mark (Marny) Anderson of Scottsburg, Indiana, grandchildren Clementine and Gus Anderson, and two great-grandchildren, all residing in Modesto, California. He is preceded in death by his parents and his three sisters, Jean (John) McIntosh, Adella (Keith) Barnes, and Ardie Larson.

The arrangements are entrusted to Newcomer Funeral Home. No services will be held at this time. In honoring Don's memory, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Central Wyoming Hospice & Transitions, 319 S Wilson St., Casper, WY.


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