Donald Laverne Taggart

Don, 83, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend went to be with the Lord on Thursday June 16, 2011 in Oklahoma City following a brief illness. Don was born near Waukomis OK on March 31, 1928, to Joe Ben and Alta Taggart. From an early age, Don exhibited a talent for raising, showing and evaluating livestock and he carried this interest with him his entire life. In keeping with his lifelong passion, he went on to graduate from Oklahoma State University in 1950 with a degree in Animal Science and soon thereafter, he was joined in marriage in 1950 to his beloved wife of 49 years, the former Mary Ann Smith. Don served his country in the Korean War, attaining the rank of 1st Lieutenant with Oklahoma’s 45th Infantry. In 1953, he was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service. Upon his return to civilian life, Don earned a Master’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Illinois and a move back to native Oklahoma in the early 60’s eventually led him to a long and richly rewarding career with the State Fair of Oklahoma. His knowledge of livestock and expertise in the field were highly valued and up to and following his retirement from the Fair, he was frequently called upon to judge at prominent shows across the U.S. including the Houston Livestock Show and State Fair of Texas. In keeping with his roots, he maintained a lifelong involvement with 4H and FFA youth and served in various leadership roles with the Sirloin Club and Southwest American Livestock Foundation. His sweet spirit and engaging personality will be greatly missed by all. Don is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Lynn and Sheri Taggart and their sons John and Jace Taggart, all of Oklahoma City; sister Glenna Belle Berkenbile, nephew Jimmy Berkenbile and wife Beth and families, nephew Terry Berkenbile and families, all of Hennessey; sister-in-law Ila Smith and niece Lu Ann Wilson and husband Bob Wilson and families, all of Oklahoma City; niece Cathie Bailey and husband Bob Bailey of Weatherford; special friend and companion Lawanda Burger and family, all of Oklahoma City. Services will be held at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 7201 West Britton Road, Oklahoma City OK 73132 on Tuesday June 21 at 2:00 pm, under direction of Hahn-Cook Street & Draper Funeral Services of Oklahoma City. Visitation will be Monday from 8am to 9pm at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper. Donations accepted to the American Heart Association.