Donald Lee Reininger, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed community member, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on December 29, 1929, in New Braunfels, Texas, Donald was the beloved son of Anton and Annie (Hohman) Reininger.
Donald’s life was one of dedication and service, punctuated by his deep love for family and country. After graduating from Texas A&M with an Engineering Degree in 1952, he selflessly served in the United States Army, distinguishing himself during active duty in the Korean War. His military career spanned decades, with his service continuing into the Army Reserves until his retirement in 1976. Donald was honored to be placed on the official retirement list in December 1989.
Donald married the love of his life, Lou Anna Russell, on May 24, 1951, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion. Though preceded in death by his beloved Lou Anna, Donald remained the steadfast patriarch of his family. His enduring legacy lives on through his son, Donald Gordon Reininger and wife Cathy of Madison, MS; daughters, Brenda Lee Elmore and husband Mark of Longmont, CO, and Ruth Ann Brown and husband Terry of Vancouver, WA. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Christopher Olguin, Jessica Militzer, Annie Reininger, Holly Bono, Ryan Elmore, Emily Elmore, Katie Elmore, and Becky Gatterman, and his joy only grew with 16 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
A distinguished career in civil engineering with the Federal Aviation Administration marked Donald’s professional life. His passion for aviation led him to work with the International Civil Aviation Organization, where his contributions to designing and building airport runways left a lasting impact across the globe. Donald found great joy and camaraderie in his active involvement with the Texas A&M Former Students Association and the Texas A&M Cadet Corps Association, reflecting his lifelong Aggie spirit.
Donald is predeceased by his wife Lou Anna Reininger, who passed away on August 7, 2013; his parents, Anton and Annie Reininger; his brothers, Harold and Terrance Reininger; and his sisters, Mary Ann Wise and Dorothy Brietzke. His family takes solace in the knowledge that he is reunited with them in peace.
A visitation will be held from 10:00am to 11:30am on Friday, September 4, 2026 at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home, 2900 Williams Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78628, with a service beginning at 11:30am. A committal service with full retiree military honors will follow at 1:00pm at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, 11463 TX-195, Killeen, Texas 76542.
