Donald J. Cherry

Donald J. Cherry, Chief Master Sergeant, United States Air Force (Retired), passed away on October 30, 2022. Don was born on a warm July night in 1933, on the family farm in Pawnee County, Oklahoma. He was the first child of Nellie and Sidney Cherry. Siblings included James (deceased), Lillian, Barbara, Jewell, JoAnne, and David. Don graduated from Merced Union High School in 1951, and entered the United States Air Force in April, 1952. He served continuously for over 22 years before retiring with 11 years of overseas assignments. Don’s commendations for his military service include the Bronze Star, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Korean Service Medal with Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, among others. After retiring from the Air Force, Don earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Houston. He found tax law intellectually engaging and sought employment in the oil industry. He worked for 17 years in the federal tax departments of Getty Oil Company and Texaco before retiring from his second career. Don was a Master of the Freemasons with over 50 years of service, in German and Texan lodges. Don was also active in the American Legion and the United Methodist Church.

Don’s commitment to military service and his civilian career were parallel to commitment to his family. Don was admired, respected, and beloved by his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 30 years, Kay Arlene Cherry, by his children, Sharon Bush, Donald J. Cherry, Jr, (Maria), Nita Cherry, Mark Fry, and Kimberly Fry, and by his grandchildren Frank, Douglas, Nicolas, and Isabelle. He is also survived by his first wife, Ursula Irene Cherry. He will be missed by all.

Don will be honored with a military ceremony in Arlington National Cemetery, where his cremated remains will be inurned. At Don’s request no public services will be held. The sounding of Taps always brought tears to his eyes, as well as the thought that “Old soldiers never die, they simply fade away.” In lieu of customary remembrances, Don would prefer donations directed to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.