Donald Westley Belcher

Wonderful Son and Father and Husband and Friend

Donald Belcher, born September 6, 1928, peacefully passed away at his home in Castroville, Texas, on August 9, 2026, at the age of 97.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Belcher and Easter Vada Belcher; his sister, Lois Jane Belcher; and his brothers, Joseph E. "Buddy" Belcher, Louis Erwin "Totsy" Belcher, and Ceburn Wesley Belcher.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gaye Bippert Belcher; his children, Rebecca and Phillip Stephens, Robert and Alana Belcher, Brenda and Michael Kempf, and Monte Bippert; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Larry and Linda Belcher and Glen and Susan Belcher; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donald grew up in Port Aransas, Texas, during the Great Depression and World War II. He learned the value of hard work at an early age, beginning to work at just nine years old. He would drive his mother's homemade pies to the Coast Guard members stationed on the island to sell, and he also caught fish to help support his family. That early love of the water and fishing would grow into a lifelong passion.

At the age of 19, Donald moved to San Antonio, where he married Maryann Vick. Together, they were blessed with two children. Donald eventually took over his father-in-law's business, specializing in electroplating, refinishing, and antiques. His particular passion and expertise were in antique lighting. In 1972, he moved the business to Castroville, where he continued to build a successful career and became a valued member of the community.

After 40 years of marriage, Maryann passed away. In 1989, Donald married Gaye Bippert, gaining two more wonderful children and beginning a new chapter filled with family, love, and shared adventures.

Donald was also one of the founders of Castroville's Old Fashion Christmas celebration. For more than 40 years, this beloved and wholesome holiday tradition has brought joy to generations of families and become an important part of the community.

A successful business owner and investor, Donald approached all of his diverse endeavors with determination, ingenuity, and an unwavering work ethic. Yet, of all his accomplishments, fishing remained one of his greatest joys.

At the age of 91, Donald retired so he could devote more time to the pastime he loved most. In July 2026, he was inducted into the Boatmen Hall of Fame, recognizing a lifetime dedicated to the pure enjoyment of fishing and a legacy that spans generations.

Donald will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his love of fishing, his devotion to family, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him. His legacy lives on through his family, the traditions he helped create, and the generations who will carry his stories and love of the outdoors forward.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

The Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026 at the Zion Lutheran Church, 1106 Fiorella Street, Castroville. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park, 1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, Texas.

Memorials may be made in Donald's memory to Port Aransas Boatmen, attn. Kimberly Zahn Winton, P.O. Box 271, Port Aransas, TX 78373 or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com