Don reflected frequently of his youth growing up in Fort Madison, Iowa in Lee County. He spoke often of his ramblings as a child with his siblings, riding his bike through town with his sidekick “Bozo” his beloved dog. He was especially proud of working hard as a teenager at the local Hy-Vee and bowling alley to purchase his first car at age 16 and then joining the military after graduating high school early at age 17. Among Don’s proudest accomplishments was marrying the love of his life, Patsy Rae in Columbia, South Carolina and raising his family in San Antonio, Texas for more than 40 years. Don was dignified, maintained an incredible work ethic and remained steadfast in his devotion to his family. He taught his three daughters to be honest, hardworking and accountable for their actions. He was a loving husband, honorable father, proud grandfather and great grandfather.
Don joined the US Army on June 23, 1960 at the age of 17, serving at multiple posts in the United States and Germany. He was assigned to the 2nd Armor Division in Fort Hood, Texas. He served in the military operation division as a programmer analyst and computer machine operator and completed a combat tour in Viet Nam 1969-70 where he received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his honorable service. He retired from the US Army on June 1, 1982 after 22 years of serving his country. For an additional 25 years, Don worked for the Department of Defense at Fort Sam Houston traveling the world to audit information systems at military posts, retiring in Schertz, Texas.
After retirement Don and Patsy moved from Schertz, Texas to their new home in Glendale, Arizona where they resided for eight years enjoying time with their grandchildren.
Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patsy Rae Tweedy. Don is survived by his daughters, LaRisa Rai Tweedy of Houston, Texas; Sherri Lee Varrieur of Sebring, Florida; Kelly Ann Lane and son-in-law Russell James Lane of Glendale, Arizona; his grandchildren, Haley Rae King, Garrett James Lane, Morgan Carol Elizabeth Lane; great grandchildren, Dakota Vernon King and Zeppelin Joy King; sisters, Mary Lou Dickey, Susan Vogt, Pat Hemmie; and brother, Richard Wagnor. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold L. Tweedy and his mother Vivian E. Sargent; sister, Margaret Washem; brother, Jack Tweedy; and his grandchildren, Austin Thomas Lane, Jordyn Elizabeth Lane.
Don will be dearly missed by all that loved him and knew him. Visitation will be held Monday, December 5 from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio. Military graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio.
Memories may be shared at www.sunsetfuneralhomessa.com.
