Dennis "Denny" Anstadt passed away on September 24, 2021 at the age of 74. In recent years, he battled multiple serious medical conditions. He demonstrated courage and resiliency as he faced these challenges. Despite the pain, Denny never lost his sense of humor or his will to fight. He stayed strong until the day he was called home.

He was born to Pete and Jean Anstadt on November 3, 1946. After graduating high school, he joined the National Guard and followed in his father's footsteps in becoming a master plumber. Denny worked hard throughout his life to support and provide for his family. He was a loving son, father and husband.

He is survived by his wife Donna; his sons Dennis Jr. and Aaron; and his daughter, Natalie. He is also survived by his four grandchildren Shane Michael, Jennifer, Ashley and Nicholas. He now joins his parents and his son Shane, who predeceased him.

Denny was the center of our family that kept us all together and made sure that we always had the love and support that we needed to succeed in life. He was always generous with his family, friends, and neighbors, sharing whatever we had with others in need. He always made sure that there were more gifts under the tree than we could really afford, and gave to multiple charities including Toys for Tots, Wounded Warriors and other local charities that supported struggling veterans.

He had the patience of a saint when it came to raising rambunctious teenagers, and always kept his sense of humor even when we were caught taking the family car for a joyride in the middle of the night. He was a wonderful cook and enjoyed preparing our holiday feasts and firing up the grill for family BBQs. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed hunting and fishing, and spent many weekends fishing at the river with his kids and grandkids.

His smile and laughter will be missed but we are all lucky to have shared a lifetime of memories with such a wonderful man. A short graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at Milan Cemetery. To view and sign Denny's online guestbook, visit www.lauerfuneral.com.

Deer Park's Lauer Funeral Home

Published by Spokesman-Review on Oct. 17, 2021.