Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence “CW” Gibson and Mildred Brice Gibson, and his sister, Betty Louise Gibson Maduzia.
Donald was blessed with a circle of close, dear, loving friends. He was passionately devoted to them all. Deepest gratitude to Bruce Kelton, for his unwavering love, friendship and devotion to Donald.
Donald’s surviving family are his brother in law, Franklin R Maduzia, Sr., niece Jodie Maduzia Janczak and her husband David, nephews, Franklin R Maduzia Jr, and his wife Norma, Douglas Maduzia and his wife Jane, Stephen Maduzia and his wife Ginger, Jason Maduzia and his wife April, great nieces Jamie Janczak Zolan, and her husband Tim, Kassandra Maduzia, Ashley Maduzia, Elise Maduzia, Madison Maduzia and great nephew, Michael Maduzia.
Donald grew up in the heart of Northside Houston, graduating from Sam Houston High School.
Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Air Force, and continued his education. He obtained a Bachelors degree from University of Texas School of Nursing in Galveston, Texas, and a Master degree from Trinity University in San Antonio.
He retired from the Air Force Reserves in the early 90’s at the rank of Lt. Colonel.
Donald never retired from the public work force.
He was employed at the Department of Veteran Affairs for 30 years, on and off at JC Penny’s and Weight Watchers, and was employed with Texas Veterans Commission at the time of his death.
When Donald wasn’t working, he would pull from his many interests to fill his days. He always found time to spend with his family, and friends. He never slowed down.
Donald loved to bake. He shared that love by treating his friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and anyone who would help him eat it, to some of the best tasting baked goods they had ever had. When paired with his passion for collecting, and sharing wines, great memories were made.
He loved traveling with friends, attending Broadway Plays, catching a good movie, experiencing a great mixed drink, shopping, trying and buying wines, and just doing all the things friends do together. He adored the fall season, festivals, and the holiday season, when it cooled down enough for him to wear his hats, scarves and vest.
Donald never missed an opportunity to share his love, pride, wisdom, and gratitude of family and friends with those who entered his life. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and talked about to others who did not, as an example of living life to the fullest.
The world has lost a beautiful soul and it will be an emptier place without him.
In lieu of sending flowers to the services, consider a donation, in remembrance of Donald, to: Omega House, 602 Branard St. Houston, Tx. 77006.
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