Donna Jewel Anderson

Donna Jewel Anderson passed away peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, at St. James Healthcare in Butte, Montana, after a courageous and unwavering battle with breast cancer. Born on a crisp autumn morning—Wednesday, October 2, 1968—in Everett, Washington, Donna was the beloved daughter of Darrell and Julia (Brixey) Anderson. She spent her formative years in the Buhl and Jerome areas of Idaho, where her vibrant spirit began to shine. In her early twenties, Donna made Montana her home. From the beginning, she was a force of nature—never without work, often juggling multiple jobs with determination and grace. Her tireless work ethic was matched only by her warmth and generosity. Donna had a rare gift: she never met a stranger. Her ability to connect with others was effortless and genuine, often inviting new friends to dinner and forging bonds that lasted a lifetime. Her quick wit, infectious laughter, and unforgettable stories made her the kind of person who could light up any room. To know Donna was to know joy. Donna spent over a decade working at the Montana Developmental Center in Boulder, where she met her soulmate, Doug Weisenberger. Together, they embraced the great outdoors—camping, trapping, and hunting—creating a tapestry of cherished memories. Though she didn’t graduate high school traditionally, Donna earned her GED and, in her thirties, put herself through college. She went on to serve as a certified surgical technologist at St. James Healthcare for more than 20 years, touching countless lives with her skill and compassion. At 39, Donna welcomed her greatest blessing—her daughter, Danika Jewel. From that moment on, Donna’s world revolved around Danika. She poured her heart into motherhood, encouraging Danika to explore every opportunity and cheering her on with pride, especially during speed skating competitions in Calgary. Donna’s love was fierce, unwavering, and beautifully selfless. She built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure for the two of them. Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Julia and Darrell Anderson, and her beloved partner, Doug Weisenberger. She is survived by her cherished daughter, Danika Jewel Carr; her stepmother, Vivian; her siblings, Roy, Randy, and Tawnia; and her dearest friends Ruth, DeAnn, and Dannette. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by her kindness and spirit. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held on Friday, August 8th at 11:00 a.m. at Wayrynen-Richards Funeral Home, with Deacon John Uggetti officiating. In lieu of flowers, a memorial savings account has been established for Danika. Please Venmo:@Donna-Danika We will miss Donna more than words can express. Her radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering positivity left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on—especially in her beloved daughter, who carries forward Donna’s love, strength, and joyful light. Her legacy will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the family she cherished most.. “I chose not to lose my mom, and instead to gain an angel. In my mind, my heart, and my life, she is still completely present to this day---and as wise, compassionate and stubborn as ever.” -Kevin Hart

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Donna Jewel Anderson

October 2, 1968 - August 1, 2025