Chris Robert Anschutz Jr.

Christopher "Chris" Robert Anschutz Jr., age 81, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home on October 5th, 2026. Chris was born on October 19, 1944 to Christopher (Sr) and Florence (Guszak) Anschutz. Chris graduated from Seymour High School in 1962. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1965 and was on active duty through 1967, stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs. Chris was proud to serve his country and after his honorable discharge from the army, he became a member of the American Legion post 332 in Black Creek. On June 25,1966, Chris was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jeanette "Jenny" Mary Platten. They were married for 54 happy years until the time of Jenny's passing in 2020.

Chris grew up with horses and carried a life long passion for them. He participated in many parades and while in high school, even appeared on the Seymour High School football field to kick off the homecoming game on his favorite horse Beauty. After moving his family to Black Creek in 1978, his love of horses was shared with his family and he spent countless hours teaching his children how to ride. Chris and Jenny built a hobby farm with many different animals to care for and enjoy. He would never say no when his children brought home yet another animal or asked for another horse. You could often find Chris wearing his signature cowboy hat and boots for any occasion. Being a true cowboy at heart, he loved westerns and all things John Wayne. Chris was also famously known for singing the auctioneer song and was often asked to sing it at weddings and other gatherings. He enjoyed collecting Budweiser Clydesdale Steins and had an extensive collection. He loved to get dressed in his Santa suit and play the role of Santa at Christmas time; even his great-grandson thought he was 'the real deal'. Chris was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Black Creek. For many years he was the church treasurer and lectured for many Masses. Chris was president at Valley Bank, Black Creek in the 1980's. Later he worked as an accountant and controller at the Seymour Feed Mill and at Seymour Canning / Lakeside Foods. He wrapped up his working years as a mail carrier for the local post office. After his retirement, he enjoyed car rides with Jenny to go antiquing and view the colorful fall leaves, watching football games - especially the Packer games, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He truly treasured his time with everyone of his family and friends. It was clear to all that he and Jenny were inseparable, and he missed her fiercely ever since she passed away in 2020. He looked forward to the day he could be with his beloved wife in heaven.

Chris is survived by his son, Mark (Susan) Anschutz, his daughter Amy (Chris) Gritt; grandchildren Justine (Ben), Morgan "Evander", Isabelle, Gabriel, and Josephina; great-grandchildren Ben and James; his sister Karen (Bruce) Planet; his sister-in-laws Judy Schmit and Diane Bunkelman; Godson Dennis Schmit, and many other family members and friends.

Chris is preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette; parents, Christopher (Sr) and Florence Anschutz; sister Alice Anschutz; brother and sister-in-law Carl and Pat Anschutz; and brother-in-laws Donny Schmit and Terry Bunkelman.

A visitation will take place at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, on Monday, October 12, 2026 from 4 pm to 7 pm. Visitation will continue at St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Isaar on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 9:30 am until the funeral Mass at 11 am with Father Dave Greskowiak and Deacon Rich Matuszak officiating. Burial will take place at the Parish Cemetery.

Dad and Grandpa, we will forever miss your 'dad' humor, hugs, and time together, but we know how happy you are reunited with Mom and many beloved friends and family. Pops, thank you for being the best dad and grandpa we could ask for. We love you.