Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Don Canter Obituary
Wayne "Don" Canter was born May 18, 1938, in Mayfield Kentucky to Flossie and Robert Canter. He was the only son in a family with four sisters. Don met and married the love of his life, Karen Sue Mackey, in Anchorage, Alaska. Don and Karen settled in Kentucky and began their family. Don was a minister for four generations in Kentucky, Texas, Colorado, and around the world. He loved to travel the world.
He is survived by his wife, Karen (Mackey) Canter of Tyler, Texas; one sister, Glenda of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky;
Daughter, Debbie Powers and husband, Jeffrey, and three grandchildren, Jonathan, Sarah and Ren?e;
Son, Dave Canter and wife, Susan;
Daughter, Liz McCown and husband Roger and four grandchildren, Corbin, Lexi, Ava and Fletcher;
Daughter, Becky Monahan and two grandchildren, Jett and Koen.
Remembering Don Canter, as told by his wife of 61 years...
Who'd ever thought that my adventure to Alaska on a Bible class teaching campaign after ACU graduation would "introduce" me to the love of my life of 61 years! But I believe God had a plan for Don and me, and that is why we met...when we did...and how we did!
He was stationed at Fort Richardson & served in the Army.
We met at the Mountain View church of Christ in Anchorage, where I was on campaign.
He asked me out "for a coke" one evening, and that was how it all began.
As I had no job lined up after graduation, Don suggested and encouraged me to look for a job in Anchorage. It was a newly annexed State, and there were lots of job opportunities. I did secure a job with the FAA in a secretarial position....and our courtship blossomed. We became engaged 12 months later & married in August.
Don was discharged from the service, and we moved to Kentucky for him to complete his degree and our family began! Don completed his degree in Accounting at Murray State University.
Rather than becoming an Accountant, though, Don received his 'calling' to go into ministry. He preached at several small congregations in the area while going to school. He acquired his first preaching job at Skellytown, Texas church of Christ! He was greatly influenced by my dad, Jack Mackey, and a cousin, Lexie Ray, who were also ministers.
Then, it seemed Colorado was calling! We took a giant step and moved to La Junta, Colorado to work and serve in the congregation there. Don always said La Junta church of Christ was his "Philippi" church...it was a most satisfying work for him. We were there for 11 years!
Golden, Colorado church of Christ was his next ministry. We were there for 2 years.
Bear Valley School of Preaching, located in Denver area, was looking for a teacher and persuaded Don to teach there part-time. Then it progressed into full-time ministry. He served the Bear Valley church of Christ congregation for 24 years.
While at Bear Valley, he became involved with Military Outreach and got the "bug" to travel! He would teach and preach on military bases primarily in Poland, Germany, Italy, and England.
Don retired from the Bear Valley ministry in 2006, and our children were encouraging us to be closer to one of them.
So, Tyler, Texas, our next stop!
However, "retirement" didn't suit him, and he began to preach at the church of Christ in Frankston, Texas.... commuted from Tyler for 10 years.
Don has traveled to over 50 countries...some with teaching responsibilities; some with pleasure...and we have "plates" on the wall to prove it!
Don was diagnosed with ALS last October... which is a progressive, terminal disease. With that news, Don proceeded to arrange a time for our whole family (19) to get together! Quite an undertaking!
Plans WERE made and excitement for our Family Reunion February 17-19 began!
Then, on Monday, February 13, Don fell, was hospitalized and suffered a blood clot which affected his ability to communicate.
But God blessed him, and he was able to talk and visit with his family. Such a blessing from God to be with all his loved ones while in the hospital!
God took him home to be with Him forever the following Saturday, February 25, 2023. He passed peacefully with dignity.
What a beautiful life we enjoyed! Some of his favorite things were:
He loved the Lord and His church! He spent his life teaching and preaching God's Word. He especially enjoyed the personal work and all the fellowship he had with his brothers and sisters in Christ.
He loved his family! He was so proud of his children becoming Christians, achieving college degrees, and living successful lives. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow up, participating in sports, activities and achieving many goals and successes!
He loved traveling! Don traveled to over 50 countries, some work, some pleasure! He loved finding GOOD places to have dinner while traveling and loved surprising me with an agenda he planned! Switzerland was his favorite country...he enjoyed the beauty so much!
He loved sports! Basketball was his favorite! He played competitive pick-up games until he was 60! Any free time included game watching of whatever was on-basketball, football, baseball and even lacrosse!
He loved people! A people-person!
He loved the Aspens in the fall!
He loved his Colorado mountains. He loved the beautiful snow! He loved to ski!
Our family will be celebrating Don's life with a private service in the mountains he loved.
The family asks that any donations be sent to the Hospice Foundation of America in honor of the deceased.
View All Photos
Add Photos to Memorial
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Don Smith
November 11, 2023
Don and I loved Don and Karen both as we were preaching students at Bear Valley 1983-85. We loved reading this lovely story of your lives and felt very emotional reading it together. We are praying for your peace and comfort for you all. In Christian Love, Don and Ruthie Smith
Corbin McCown
May 22, 2023
I lost my grandpa about 3 months ago. He would have been 85 yesterday. For a while I struggled to bring words together to convey the impact he has had on me, because you can´t put the kind of peace he made you feel around him into words.
From what I knew about my grandpa even before he knew me, he embodied the very idea of servant leader. He told me that oftentimes he would leave from the church office after writing his sermon and go straight to homes or hospitals just to be present for people because "that´s where the real work was done". If you know one thing about Church of Christ preachers, it´s probably that instrumental worship is not their cup of tea. Joining my high school chapel worship team on piano was probably not his favorite move of mine. Nevertheless, anytime he could, he showed up to see me play. He taught me that love goes the extra mile. That love is there even against social convention, ideology, and discomfort.
When news of his ALS diagnosis came my way all I could think of was what can I do. But there isn´t anything you can do about ALS. Not a damn thing. All you can do is brace for impact, or so I thought. He challenged that notion every time I called him, telling me how much of an impact I was making just by talking and listening to him. I got the opportunity to look over his neuropsychological evaluation over the phone with him. He expressed so many worries about his test performance that I was able to help explain and he continuously expressed how grateful he was for me taking a look at it with him. This experience with him further solidified just how much I love the field I´m working toward and he will forever be an influence in my professional practice.
If you´ve read this far, I appreciate you hearing a story that influences the very core of my being. If you like any part of me, chances are you woulda liked him too. Miss you grandpa.
Lindsey Fouts
April 29, 2023
Don was a dear friend and brother in the Lord who I consider not only a gifted and erudite teacher of God's Word but a mentor as well. Always cheerful and with a smile for everyone he encountered, Don was beloved by so many and met any discord with grace, love, and forgiveness. He will be remembered by all of us who gained in the Lord through his teaching and preaching, his guidance, and his sincere friendship. We miss you Don, but we rest in the knowledge that you are well and whole again now and with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In Christian love and fond memories,
M. Lindsey Fouts III
Ann Chapman
March 31, 2023
I have many memories of Don. The first one was when he and Karen would come to Amarillo in the summer for him to work. I remember his `flat top´ haircut! Very cool back then! Also, I recall how hard he worked and how dirty he was when he came home from working in construction.
Don and I shared the love of snow skiing! He loved it! I enjoyed skiing with him and it was so nice that they lived in Colorado and were nice enough to let us come stay and ski! I remember that he did not want to take a break for lunch!! He would take peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to eat so he would have more time to ski! Also, I always thought I was good at being one of the last ones down the slope but he was better! He was so good at timing it to be able to catch the last ride up and would have one more run! It was great to share that joy and fun with him.
I remember how much he enjoyed sports. He played basketball for a long time. He loved March Madness and it is a sweet memory thinking of him as we watch the games. He would always fill out a bracket and I believe some of his family would ask some advice on a few teams.
But, most of all I appreciated his love of God and Jesus and how convicted he was to spread that love and grace to so many people. He wanted others to know Jesus and have the wonderful gift of going to heaven. He spent so much time in study and preaching and individual studies because of his love for people and wanting them to know their Savior. He lived a life of dedication to his family, Karen, the church and to God. An example of a sacrificial life with many rewards!
He showed his faith in God in the way he faced his health issues. Such a hard diagnosis but all I saw was faith and hope. An example of a peace that only God can provide.
I love his family and know they are sad but so blessed by his life and his love for them and Karen.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Ann Chapman
March 30, 2023
Joy Finnell
March 24, 2023
When Don came to La Junta he was young and so enthusiastic. An inspiration to all who knew him. He was always working. Doing Bible studies or teaching us how to do them, working with the youth group, teaching and preaching. I will always remember a phrase he would use in his sermons, "I am fully persuaded ". And I am fully persuaded he made a difference in many lives. He will not be forgotten, will be missed and remembered with love by many.
Karen, praying for Gods peace for you and your family.
Vanessa Hunt
March 24, 2023
My memories of Don go way back. I was 10 and he seemed very old to me and at times scary. But he listened to me and that made a huge impression on me. I wanted To be baptized and my parents thought I was too young. He took the time to study with me and never made me feel like I was wrong. After we studied several times together he baptized me. I was so happy walking down that aisle on that Sunday morning to get baptized and Don stood at the front waiting for me. He gave me a book after I was baptized and I still have that book. I am so thankful he took the time to listen to me and study with me. I also saw as I grew older that he was selfless in his service to God.
That also made a huge impression on me. He showed me by example how to live and serve our great God and creator. I am so thankful for his true commitment to God and that he showed us a true example of servitude and love for God and the people around him.
Brandi
March 23, 2023
What a beautiful soul Mr Canter was, and his smile was contagious. He will forever be in my heart and the hearts of others who knew him.
Sharon Pelkey
March 17, 2023
I am reading this with tears in my eyes. Even though we lived on the East Coast, we visited OKC ALL the time...tons and tons of family. Debbie and I played together with Leslie and spent the night at Alpha's quite a bit! I always loved when the Mackey girls with their families and Jack and Edna would all come to Max and Wayne's. I loved hearing my Uncle Jack Mackey and Don preach. He was such a great role model, he and Karen. So sorry he was diagnosed with ALS, but GOD did enable your family reunion and visiting in the hospital. Sending prayers, hugs and love to my beautiful family and their friends.
Wendy Patterson
March 17, 2023
Don had such an influence on so many people's lives, mine included. I was a bit intimidated by him but his Bible teaching is what brought me to be the faithful Christian I am today. The LaJunta Colorado has many fond memories of him and his families time at the congregation. Much love.
MaryAnne Hughes Stansbury
March 15, 2023
I met Don and Karen when I moved to La Junta when I was in the 6th grade. They had a sweet young family. Becky and Liz were both born while they were there. I have special memories of teaching both of those babies in the toddler´s class.
Don was a fantastic preacher and had a special affinity for working with the youth. He organized so many different activities for us, always encouraging everyone to get involved. We had devotionals at different members homes and he always encouraged the young men to give the lessons and lead the singing. We had door knocking campaigns. We had in depth Bible studies on current topics. We had fun activities like basketball and volleyball and Capture the flag. We came an hour early every Sunday evening and learned new songs and then taught them to the congregation. We attended many Youth Rallies in our area and hosted Youth Rallies. Don would take a group to the ACU lectureship every year and always encourage some of the youth to go. I remember one year we got caught in a blizzard on a trip I was on. It was before cell phones so Don found a pay phone and located a church member who took us all in and fed us until the weather cleared. Don said if you need help, always contact the church. What a great lesson! Besides all of the youth activities Don was always having Bible studies with many people. He taught so many people about our Lord and baptized many, helping our youth group and our congregation to grow.
My life was blessed and strengthened tremendously by knowing Don. Thank you, God, for the wonderful life Don lived.
Our Almighty Father in Heaven, I ask you please to give Karen and all of her family Your courage and Your comfort and Your peace as they say goodbye, for now, to their precious loved one. In Jesus name, Amen.
Roger Holm
March 14, 2023
Don was a good man who loved God with all of his being. He inspired so many people to put God first in their life. He loved God and loved working in God's vineyard. He baptized my brother Brad, friend Mike Heatwole and myself into Christ in August of 1974. We were added to a very special congregation with an inspiring teacher and great elders. We couldn't have asked for a better congregation of people to begin our Christian journey with. Thank you Don and Karen. You have always been a special blessing in my life. It inspires me to continue to do the good work of God in his vineyard.
Brey
March 13, 2023
Uncle Don warm and loving man. He always wanted to talk about what his kids were doing. His pride in the Church and family was always positive. Mom would kept us up to date every time we got a card or letter. I am happy that I am part of the Canter family .
Sandy Strand
March 13, 2023
A beautiful life well lived to the glory of God.
We began worshiping at Bear Valley when we were a young family with small children. Don and Karen were so welcoming and came and sat with us at the first potluck we attended. Over the years our love and respect for Don and Karen grew. Don was a faithful servant who used his talents to serve God. I often found myself marveling at his lessons, as anyone could gain knowledge from them.
I could ask him any question and know I would receive an honest answer grounded in truth.
He was a constant encourager to all. It was a joy when he conducted the wedding of our daughter and son-in-law.
The lives touched and influenced by brother Don is far reaching and will be passed to future generations. There is comfort and peace knowing he is safe with Jesus.
Pamela Randall
March 13, 2023
We have so many memories of Din and Karen, I dont know where to begin. Last summer Karen drove Don to Colorado and stopped by Gunnison. The next day we packed a picnic basket and headed to cow camp in Union Park so Don and Karen could say hi to Rick and Jody who were up there working cattle. We ate lunch with all the cowboys in the building that used to be a stage coach stop at the top of Spring Creek. It was a good day.
In 1980 Don and Karen came to our house to study the Bible with us. After many words were spoken, Don baptized Rick, our daughter Holly and me. So I am sure we are like their spiritural children. As a consequence, our daughter Jody was also baptized into Christ, Holly's husband Rob, their two children, my parents and many others we have taught. I will forever be grateful. So, only God knows the ripple effect Don and Karen had in this world, as ours was just one story.
All because two people fell in love and devoted their lives in the service of God. We all were blessed, to share the same time and space with them while we were here and look forward to that great day when joy is all we know.
Jean Wilmington
March 13, 2023
Don was one of the best preachers Fred and I have ever known. It never made any difference what age bracket you fit into Don always knew how to communicate with you. He knew how to make everyone laugh and have a good time because he loved people. Don always loved to tease me and I guess I knew how to give it back to Don because I had four brothers to grow up with. If you were a friend of Don's you knew he loved the Lord. He truly was a people person. Don will be missed by people from all walks of life all over the world, but we can say we know he has gone home to be with the Lord. Don filled his life with serving the Lord and everyone around him and now he has won his victory.
We will continue to pray for Karen and the family as they face the pain of this great loss in their life.
Tami Roberts
March 12, 2023
Don and Karen were a HUGE part of our life as we were raising our children. I LOVED hearing him preach and so did my family!!! We were a part of the young families class through 1986-1998 at Bear Valley. Don and Karen were right there with us!!! We were in their home multiple times and they were a HUGE part of that young families class!!! Love them both SOOOO much!!! Grateful to God for the blessing they have been in our life!!!
Phillip Woolley
March 12, 2023
I won´t ever forget Don´s kindness and his love of family and the Lord. Whether it was trying to post up on him on the basketball court or listening intently as a teenager teaching our class, he always made me learn and be a better person, even when I may or may not have decorated the Canter house with toilet paper from time to time!
I will fondly remember him making us memorize verses in the Bible that would impact me to this day, and that I can quote from memory because of him. Even though it´s been years since he and his family have been in Colorado, I always felt like we picked up where we left off every time our paths crossed. I will miss him dearly, and am so happy he was part of my family. The Woolley´s love and appreciate the Canter´s dearly, and we celebrate his life, and all the wonderful memories we have with him.
Dillon Malone
March 12, 2023
Don was a amazing man he was my preacher at Frank´s Ron church of Christ when I was growing up and I learned a lot of things about God from him. I will never forget all the Bible studies we did before I got baptized at 13 and how many questions I asked him truly a remarkable man and he will be missed.
Carol Heatwole
March 12, 2023
Karen and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss and pray that all the memories you have will help you as you carry on. We love you and will keep you in our prayers. We love you all and will be praying for each of you.
Just a couple of memories of Don.
When I think about Don I see a man on fire for the Lord. He preached with passion and love. He always had a smile, a hug and words of encouragement for everyone. I can still see his big smile
We love you all and will be praying.
Love,
Jon and Carol Neatwole
Michelle Collard
March 12, 2023
More years ago than I care to admit, two things collided that forever changed my life. I turned 13 and joined the youth group, and the church hired a 27-year-old energizer bunny to be their new minister. Don had a vision for what our YG could be and do and thus began my faith journey. YG met at least 5 times a week to study, to sing, to have fun....it's because of his work that I can still quote scripture and also play a wily game of capture the flag. Don created a safe place for me to grow - a landing spot that every teen inevitably needs while trying to master the brutal teen years. I became the church secretary and spent more time being challenged, mentored, and talking, talking, talking. It was those years that built a solid foundation that allowed my faith to stand firm when years later betrayal and pain rocked my world. My life was in shambles, but my faith held. I thank Don for that. We built a relationship that was important enough to me to do the work of staying connected through all the moves and changes life inevitably brings and I was so happy when their last move brought them to Texas and near enough to meet for occasional lunches. A few months ago, he called me to tell me that they were going to come to church with me the following morning, but he wanted me to know what was going on with him first. That's when he shared the horrific news of the ALS diagnosis. My heart was broken and over the coming weeks I would confide how angry I was and how I didn't understand God. In true Don fashion, he challenged me to reframe, consider the lessons, and be grateful for all the blessings we had. I dreaded the freedoms that ALS would rob him and prayed hard for the family as they adjusted and faced the unknown. I fully believe that God, in his gracious loving kindness, allowed them to have precious time together and then invited him home. I'm forever grateful for the gift that Don was in my life, for the privilege of knowing and loving the Canter family. Karen and family, you are in my prayers as you begin the task of finding a new normal. Much love to you all.
Chris Hawthorne
March 12, 2023
Don was a big influence on my life and I always enjoyed hanging out with him. I remember when we used to play basketball at a local school and him showing me up all the time! I know he will be missed by a lot of people, especially me!! I live you all and send my biggest, warmest hugs I can!
Bill & Audrey Varner
March 11, 2023
Many fond memories of Don and Karen and their work in La Junta, CO. Don was a very Godly man who touched many lives. We have heard "remember when Don Canter was here" many times. The comments were always positive.
TOM & CARLA WRIGHT
March 10, 2023
Hello, Karen. We are sending you and family our love in this time of great loss. We will always cherish and miss our co-working with Don and you at Bear Valley church of Christ. May God's love and blessings be upon you always. In Christian love, Tom and Carla Wright!
Brenda Collier
March 10, 2023
What an incredible life Don lived with God as his pilot! I remember when he and Karen would visit Debbie & Jeff at our church. They would beam with joy in their parents' presence. We were also blessed by their friendliness. Their example of joy and service was definitely passed on to Debbie and Jeff as they work tirelessly in our congregation. May God watch over their entire family as they celebrate this great man.
Kathleen and Ed Compton
March 10, 2023
What a wonderful life! And such a blessing to now be with the Lord. When we would visit the Frankston congregation with my sister, Rae, Don would always tease her that it was good to have her "daughter" visit...or something like that. Don was definitely a "people person". With our love and sincere sympathy.
Diana Light
March 9, 2023
I was blessed to meet Don when I began dating my future husband, Kirk, and we started attending his home church Bear Valley. Yet I didn't get to know Don personally until Kirk and I were engaged, and Don walked us through pre-marital counseling. With his signature wisdom and patience, Don prepared us for the journey that was before us as a couple, and how God is meant to be the center of our marriage. While those afternoons have served to strengthen our bond in countless ways (thanks for the tip about not financing a car!), Don changed my life when he talked me through my decision to be baptized as an adult. I count my time with Don and his wise counsel as one of the many blessings in my journey to my Lord and Savior. I have prayed many times of the gratitude I have for Don, for the beautiful day he dunked me under that water and I was able to come out white as snow! I smile now thinking of the many souls he has helped find their way home. Don was a man who can so clearly say he fought the good fight and finished the race. Praise God he can now wear his crown of righteousness! Prayers to the Canter family in this season of loss. May your hearts be comforted by the countless memories of your amazing patriarch, may you be surrounded by a cloud of love and hope. May those of us who love you and loved Don support you in this season with the loving comfort afforded to us through the Holy Spirit.
Anna Rouse
March 9, 2023
Don was such a huge influence in my life, especially during my teen years. He was an amazing leader, preacher and youth minister, and he believed in me when I often didn´t believe in myself. I was really blessed to have him as our youth minister through Jr and Sr High, and I loved getting into some great discussions on the drives to the different youth rally´s our youth group attended. He became a lifelong friend, and I will always treasure that friendship. You´ll be missed, Don, but I know Heaven has welcomed you with open arms.
Sharyn Harrison
March 8, 2023
Don was a very special person loved by all who knew him. My late husband admired Don and spoke of him often.
Bill Ceraso
March 8, 2023
Jesus all over each of you who loved him. What a good man. I'm so glad yo know his daughter Debbie!
David and Susan Malott
March 8, 2023
What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man! We will forever hold him in our hearts and treasure all of the great memories we have of him and his family. Praying for God´s blessings and comfort for his family.
Rich and Nancy Light
March 8, 2023
Don had a special place in our hearts. He helped us move into our Eastman house and we had just met him. We remember him officiating at Kirk and Diana´s wedding and what a special time that was. He was a wonderful counselor and friend. We will fondly remember our last get together in Steamboat Springs. He was truly a worthy servant of God. Love and condolences to your family.
Showing 1 - 34 of 34 results
Make a Donation
in Don Canter's name
How to support Don's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Don Canter's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
