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Harold Anast, 81. SURPRISE, Ariz. — Harold Anast, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime resident of Illinois who later retired to Arizona, died peacefully on September 29, 2025, at the age of 81. His wife of 26 years, Michelle Plaza Anast, was by his side. Mr. Anast was born on October 29, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to Harry Anast and Christine Raptis Tovar Anast. He was the eldest of twin brothers, sharing a close bond throughout life with his brother, Chris Anast. From 1966 to 1968, Mr. Anast served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he worked for many years at the Naval Air Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, Illinois, where he later met his wife, Michelle. In 2015, Mr. Anast moved to Goodyear, Arizona, to be closer to his brother Chris. The two spent their days fishing, target shooting, and, visiting each other several times a week and touring Arizona. He enjoyed relaxing in his “man cave” — his garage — surrounded by hundreds of photos of family, friends, and military buddies. There, he would spend countless hours watching favorite DVDs and enjoying his ever-present Coca-Cola. Mr. Anast is survived by his wife, Michelle Anast and also survived by his children, Harold Fisher, Cassandra Fisher, Jamie Richards, and Jason Anast; two sisters, Sylvia Stevens and Pamela Walters; and two brothers, Jon Anast Tanner and Gregory Anast. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Chris Anast; his sister Regina Anast Stillson; and half-siblings George Anast, Matula “Pat” Anast, Nick Anast, Gus Anast, Jim Anast, and Nikki Tovar Escobar. A private military service will be held in his honor.
