Donald Raymond Gerber

Donald Raymond Gerber, Sr. passed away on March 12, 2026. Born on March 26, 1940, in Dimmitt, Texas, to Bill and Frances Gerber, Don grew up in a large and loving family. He attended school in Umbarger and graduated in 1958. In December 1981, he married Theresa Mikesell in Amarillo, and they shared nearly 45 years of marriage.

Don worked as a highly skilled large machine mechanic across the Texas Panhandle before settling in Amarillo in the 1960s. Known throughout the region for his exceptional knowledge and ability to repair equipment, he earned a reputation as the person others turned to when something needed fixing. His children believed he could repair anything. A man of deep faith, he prayed for everyone and never failed to give thanks for his blessings. Strong yet humble, he possessed a warm smile, an inviting laugh, and a laid-back nature that drew people to him. He had a remarkable gift for making others feel valued and loved.

An avid steward of the natural world, Don cherished his garden and cared for a wide array of animals, including chickens, mini-horses, peacocks, pheasants, hummingbirds, goats, pigeons, squirrels, dogs, turtles, and even a cat. He was a talented welder who created unique yard art for family and friends from discarded tools, farm equipment, spark plugs, pistons, and plow discs. In his later years, he enjoyed building Lego kits. A devoted prankster and life-lesson teacher, he loved traveling to visit family and friends, fishing in places such as Corpus Christi, Missouri, and the Red River, and quietly watching nature from the patio with Theresa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Tommy, Billy, and Glenn Gerber, sister Janice Wieck, two grandchildren, and two great-great-grandsons. He is survived by his wife, Theresa; his children, Julie (Kevin) Wilde, Donnie (Kim) Gerber, Billy Gerber, Gena Gerber Hill, Tish (Archie) Cordova, and Tiffany Brummett; grandchildren Marci, Cristy, and Chase Johnson, Aamy Nelson, Trey (Joanna), Michael (Crystal), and Ashton Gerber, Stephanie and Rance (Laci) Gerber, Awstyn (Kristen) and Bryntin Cordova, Aaron (Alison) and Abbie (Nate) Brummett; 24 great-grandchildren; brother Kenneth (Terrie) Gerber; sisters Romilda Friemel, Carolyn (Jim) Wieck, Sharon Gerber, and Linda (Kenneth) Moore; and many beloved family members and friends.