Donald Howard Ponder

Don was born in Dallas, Texas on August 16, 1943 to Mildred and Howard Ponder. He was an only child and enjoyed a long-lasting relationship with his devoted mother.

He learned at an early age the love of golf from his father. Don enjoyed the game of golf throughout his life and was fortunate to play on many courses in the United States and in Scotland. He learned from his mother the value of hard work and dedication to a career.

Don graduated from UT Arlington and went on to receive a graduate degree in engineering from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. He had fond memories of his college days, especially times when he and his college buddies did several cross country non-stop trips out west.

After Don graduated, he took a position with Motorola. He moved to Phoenix and then to Scotland for four years with his wife and two young children. He gained a love and appreciation for Europe as he and his family traveled and explored many new places. Don cherished his memories of his travels abroad. After retiring in 2006 from Motorola, Don remained in the Austin area.

Don married his wife Cindy in 2012. They were blessed to have 13 wonderful years together in a relationship of love and respect and filled with fun and laughter. Time together was a gift from God that they both tried not to take for granted.

Don especially loved travel. He and Cindy traveled abroad and also within the United States. Don called he and Cindy “The Road Warriors” as they loved to take their long road trips and explore the US. They had just finished two different road trips before his passing.

Don loved the Lord and attended various churches during his time in Austin. He and Cindy are thankful to call Cityview Church their home church. They have been blessed and grown in their walk together while there.

Don was a fun-loving, big-hearted man who never met a stranger. He was known for his smile and his big laugh which you could always hear across a crowded room. Don took time for those he met. He has friends at the pharmacy at Walgreens, the doctors he met, the staff at the bank, at the physical therapy group and at HEB. He remembered each person’s name and would greet them with a smile and get to know something about their life. He gave an extra boost of energy and happiness to those around him. Always full of life and he will be missed by many.

Don loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a big Texas Longhorns fan and spent most Fall Saturdays watching more college football games than you can count. A true Texan, he also loved HEB and was always more than ready to run an errand to the grocery store. Don enjoyed being active outdoors, whether working in the yard, gardening or riding his bicycle.

Don is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Cindy. Also survived by his daughter, Alicia Foxworth (husband Wade) and grandson Bradley Wood; his son, David Ponder (wife Amanda ) and grandchildren Maddie, Jeremiah and Margot; his stepson, David Yoes (wife Jennifer) and grandchildren Natane, Kaelynn, Eliana; his stepdaughter, Becca Walker (husband Jayson) and grandchildren Madison, Kendall, Levi, and Chandler.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Cityview Bible Church, 2441 Co Rd 112, Round Rock, Texas. Private family burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Cityview Church or Samaritans Purse.

Funeral arrangements: Gabriels Funeral Home-Georgetown, TX