Don was born on November 13, 1926, in Ukiah, California, to Lois Tull Goudge and Cyril Melville Goudge. In 1950, he married the love of his life, Patricia Wenglein Goudge, beginning a partnership marked by devotion, generosity, and a shared love of family and community. After proudly serving his country, he attended the University of San Francisco on the GI Bill, graduating in 1951.
Early in their marriage, Don started his own pump and irrigation business in Klamath Falls, Oregon. In 1955, following an invitation from his brothers-in-law, Bob Luby and George Wenglein, the family moved to San Antonio, Texas, where Don began a long and successful career with Luby’s Cafeterias. He opened and managed the North Star Mall Luby’s until 1976, after which he was promoted to Vice President of Equipment Coordinator, a position he held until his retirement in 1991.
Don lived life with energy, curiosity, and purpose. He was an accomplished woodworker, a private pilot, and a dedicated swimmer who swam daily for as long as he was able. He loved traveling with family and friends, especially trips back to California and along the Oregon coast. Some of his happiest times were spent at Canyon Lake, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
During the mid-1970s, Don served as president of the San Antonio Restaurant Association. In retirement, he devoted countless hours to serving others through Habitat for Humanity and remained an active and faithful member of Alamo Heights United Methodist Church.
Don and Patsy were known for their warmth and hospitality, always welcoming friends and family into their home with open arms. His loyalty, thoughtfulness, work ethic and love for those around him leave a legacy in all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Goudge; his son, John Goudge; his parents, Cy & Lois Goudge; brothers, Fred and Jim Goudge; and sisters-in-law, Rogene and Dawn Goudge.
Don is survived by his daughter, Cheri Snyder and her husband, Bill; his sons, Jimmy Goudge and his wife, Suzanne, Bobby Goudge and his wife, Julie; ten grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and his sister, Jeanne Snow. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Rosalie, Margarita, Hope and Leo, for their compassionate care and kindness.
Services will be private. Honorary pallbearers will be his ten grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Christian Assistance Ministry, 110 McCullough Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78215, or Habitat For Humanity of San Antonio, 311 Probandt, San Antonio, Texas 78204.
