Richard Donald Oberweiser
"Obie"
October 31, 1952-February 18, 2018
Born on October 31st, 1952 to Jack and Carol Oberweiser, "Obie" (Dick) lived his life every day to be "way above average." Growing up in Anaconda, his shared passion for horses bonded he and his mother's hearts to each other, to the beautiful animals they would love throughout their lifetimes, and to the land they rode as often as possible.
Born on Halloween, Obie found great joy and delight every year scheming up a joke or prank for his family, co-workers, or community to honor his birthday and favorite holiday. He donned masks to scare paramedics in the back of ambulances, dressed up to wander the neighborhood and make trick-or-treaters' hearts skip a beat, and even put a fake mouse in his wife's shoe to get a scream. His love of a good laugh brought light to all of those around him and is forever captured in stories to be told well into the future.
As both an EMT and firefighter, he was always going above and beyond for others. He was known to be kind and loving, whether those in his care were the smallest of children or the eldest of their families. Obie never hesitated to be the first one in or the last one out in any fire or emergency; his bravery and leadership are admired and spoken of often by those recalling working alongside him through the years.
He married Jo on December 12, 1987, and for the following 30 years, they shared the privilege of raising 6 children together. As a father, husband, grandfather, and family man he inspired all around him to appreciate the simple things in life. He was a living example of health and athleticism, enjoying running and racing with Jo, his brother Jack, and friends. He loved "coaching" his kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews through each of their chosen activities, whether encouraging from the sidelines or giving a push on the bike during a first triathlon.
Obie was a man of great faith who believed God was with him no matter where he was, and often stated he felt most connected to God while in nature. Christ-like to all who crossed his path, all were welcome in Obie's presence. A short time before he passed he dreamt of God greeting him on a horse at the Pearly Gates of Heaven. He practiced being still and trusting God would guide him to the end with courage, unconditional love, and peace.
True to how he lived his life, his passing on February 18th was "way above average."
Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 23, 2018 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home with the Vigil starting at 6:00 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church on Saturday, February 24, 2018. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the service.
Visitation
FEB
23.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (MST)
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home
107 Oak St.
Anaconda, MT 59711
Vigil
FEB
23.
6:00 PM (MST)
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home
107 Oak St.
Anaconda, MT 59711
Visitation
FEB
24.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Holy Family Catholic Church
217 W. Pennsylvania Ave.
Mass of Christian Burial
FEB
24.
10:30 AM
Holy Family Catholic Church
217 W. Pennsylvania Ave.