Donald Anderson

**Mr. Donald Lee "Don" Anderson, 78**

Mr. Donald Lee "Don" Anderson, age 78, passed away on May 14, 2025, in Westland, Michigan. Born on September 6, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois to Edna and Gale Anderson, Don lived a life marked by humor, adventure, and deep devotion to his family and friends.

When Don was five his family moved to Moline, IL. He attended Seton Catholic Grade school and graduated from Alleman High School in Rock Island in 1964. He then attended St. Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, where he majored-by his own account-in "goofing off." After two years of spirited college life, the monks at St. Benedict's gently suggested that his talents might be better applied elsewhere. The U.S. Army agreed and welcomed Don into their ranks. He served honorably for three years, including two stationed in Seoul, South Korea. During his time abroad, Don learned to scuba dive and became a frequent figure at the compound canteen, where he earned the affectionate nickname "Little Tipper" for his sociable nature and appreciation of beer.

After being honorably discharged in 1970, Don returned to the United States and soon met Kathy, who would become his wife and lifelong partner. They married in 1971 and moved to Carbondale, Illinois, where Don earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing in 1972.

Don embarked on a remarkable 40-year career as a Project Director of Airport Systems, specializing in the design and sale of baggage conveyor equipment. His work took him around the globe and allowed him to contribute to major international airports including Beijing International Airport in China, Heathrow Airport in England, and Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada. A creative mind with a practical edge, Don co-authored five patents related to baggage system designs. Through his travels and professional endeavors, he built lasting friendships across continents.

Though he achieved much professionally, Don's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Kathy; their daughter Jen and her husband Rich; and their son Jake. He was preceded in death by his parents Edna and Gale "Andy" Anderson and his brother Raymond Anderson.

Don's early years included service as an altar boy at Sacred Heart Church-a foundation that may have contributed to the kindness he showed throughout life. He was also an accomplished swimmer and diver during his youth. During his teen years he spent many late evenings with his friends patrolling the local graveyard where they played practical jokes and scared romantic couples looking for a little "private time". Don and his friends were responsible for the rumored tales of haunted ghosts and happening at Riverside Graveyard.

Don had a deep love for the outdoors and instilled in his children a respect for all living creatures. He was a devoted father who balanced guidance with laughter-often delivered through quick-witted comebacks that were sometimes inappropriate but always memorable.

A man of boundless optimism-his glass was never half full-it was overflowing with joy and mischief. His sense of humor was legendary among those who knew him best. He had a special gift for making people laugh-especially Kathy-and could turn even life's rough days into something bearable with just a few words or a well-timed joke.

Don also had a passion for action and monster movies-a taste not always shared by his sisters-in-law or friends who were often roped into watching them anyway. His antics from youth are still fondly recounted by lifelong friends who remember him not only for what he did but for how he made them feel: seen, valued, and entertained.

In addition to all this, Don made the selfless decision to become a kidney donor-a final testament to the generosity that defined so much of his life.

Don wasn't perfect-and he'd be the first to admit it-but that only made him more lovable. His humor lit up rooms; his creativity left its mark on airports around the world; and his love enriched the lives of those lucky enough to know him.

Rest in peace dear Don-you will be deeply missed by all whose lives you touched.

May your memory bring comfort and laughter to those who carry it forward.