Mr. Don Edward Fizer

Don Edward Fizer, a devoted husband, and loving son, brother and trusted partner, passed away on Saturday, the 23rd of April 2011. He was born on the 27th of July 1942 in Wichita Falls, Texas, and grew up in Fort Worth, Texas. Don married Anne Hudson Fizer on the 5th of March 1971, who preceded him in death on the 19th of March 1999.

Don graduated from Rice University, earning a degree in Accounting and Economics in 1964 while playing on the Rice University golf team. He then went on to obtain his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law in 1968. After law school, Don joined the law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski in Houston. It was at Fulbright & Jaworski that he began his illustrious career in estate planning and probate. Don became a partner there in 1975. In 1979, Don helped establish the law firm that is now known as Fizer, Beck, Webster, Bentley & Scroggins. During his forty years of legal practice, Don became one of the premiere estate planning lawyers in Texas. Don was a valued and beloved counselor to countless families and individuals. As a frequent lecturer and teacher, Don made substantial contributions to the State Bar of Texas and other professional organizations. Because of Don’s patience, wisdom, and generosity, many people consider him to be their greatest mentor. He fully retired from the practice of law in 2008.

An avid hiker, Don often traveled to the Rocky Mountains and Costa Rica, documenting his journeys through photography. In his forties, Don took up running, a passion that resulted in the completion of forty-eight marathons. A wine connoisseur, Don was a member of the International Wine & Food Society. Illustrating his competitive spirit, Don achieved the level of Master in bridge. An ardent sports fan, Don supported the Rice Owls’ football and baseball programs and participated in professional horse racing. He was also an active member of Braeburn Country Club, where he played golf.

Don was a member of Chapelwood United Methodist Church. Don also spent time volunteering. He chaired the John J. Eikenburg Law Week Fun Run for the Houston Bar Association for several years. As a Houston Marathon participant, he was frequently one of the highest fundraisers for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In addition, he served on various charitable boards, including the G. Harold & Leila Y. Mathers Foundation, New York.

Don was preceded in death by his loving wife, Anne Hudson Fizer, and his father, Charles Edward Fizer. He is survived by his mother, Reba Jo Fizer of Fort Worth; his sister and her husband, Jody and Charles Boynton of Fort Worth; Anne’s cousins, Diane Jones and Doug George; and his family at FizerBeck.

A memorial service is to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning on Wednesday, the 27th of April, at Chapelwood United Methodist Church, 11140 Greenbay Street in Houston, where Dr. Jim Jackson and Pastor Wick Stuckey are to co-officiate.

Immediately following the service, all are invited to gather and share remembrances of Don during a reception to be held in the adjacent Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Rice University, P.O. Box 1892, Houston, TX, 77251-1892; The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 5005, Mitchelldale St., # 115, Houston, TX, 77092-7230; The Anne and Don Fizer Foundation c/o 1330 Post Oak Blvd, Ste. 2900, Houston, TX, 77056; or to the charity of one’s choice.