Crowder, OK - Donald L. Anderson, 87, of Crowder, Oklahoma, formerly of Fort Dodge, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at his home on Eufaula Lake, surrounded by family and with the comfort of a beautiful view. He fought a courageous battle with Stage 4 colon cancer.

Donald was born on November 9, 1937, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Dorothy and Frank Anderson. He grew up in Fort Dodge, later attending Fort Dodge Junior College before earning degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and his Master's Degree from the University of Central Michigan. However, Despite his numerous accomplishments, the one he was most proud of was being married to Connie Anderson for 65 years.

Teaching was Don's first calling—he spent 17 years in the classroom, shaping young lives. Beyond education, Donald had an entrepreneurial spirit, owning and operating a movie theater, a motel, and an apartment complex. He was a man of determination, vision, and steady commitment, leaving a mark both in education and business.

Faith played a central role in his life. He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in McAllen and at First United Methodist Church in McAlester, where his community and fellowship brought him joy.

Don cherished his family above all. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Connie Anderson; his siblings, Marilyn Bishop and Joyce Anderson Peterson; his children, Steve Anderson and fiancée Terri Maltony, Roger Anderson and spouse Twylia Sherrill, Kim Anderson-Ammann, Jody Anderson-Johnson, and Brian Anderson and spouse Mary Anderson.

He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Megan Richards (Will Richards), Jordan Anderson (Adan Zuniga), Brock Anderson (Hannah Anderson), Cassandra Anderson, Sean Anderson, Colin Anderson (Christa Anderson), Deven Anderson, Holly Johnson, Brooklyn Anderson, Brady Johnson, Kyla Anderson, Coleen Logan (Link Logan), Megan Fasino, Luke Sherrill (Lindsey Sherrill) and Jacob Johnson. His great-grandchildren—Isaiah Anderson, Weston Richards, Amelia Anderson, Maya Anderson, and Quinn Anderson—were his pride and joy, bringing laughter and light in his final years.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Frank Anderson; his siblings Doris Anderson Ostobee, LeRoy Anderson, and Robert Anderson; and his son, Daryl Anderson.

Don will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a steady friend, a teacher, someone who was insanely competitive when it came to almost anything, and a man who lived with quiet strength. His family and friends will forever carry his wisdom, humor, and love with them.