Donald Contreras

Donald was born in Hamlin, Texas, the son of Trine Leon Contreras and Rachel Martinez Contreras.
He was preceded in death by his parents and an older brother, Trine Contreras. He was also preceded in death by his constant companion, Esther.

Donald is survived by his wife, Linda; sons, Fernando Contreras, Skeeter Callahan, Stephen Callahan, and Rane Callahan; daughters, Adriana Medrano, Vanessa Contreras; and his great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brothers, David Contreras and wife, Isabel, Daniel Contreras and wife, Ruth Ann, Andy Contreras, Steve Contreras and wife, Vickie and Marty Contreras; sisters, Ruthie Gonzales, Mona Benavides and husband, Raul, Sally Carrillo, Judy Cocchiarella and husband, Joe, Isabel Moya and husband, Henry; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Donald served his country I the US ARMY in Vietnam. He was proud of his service for the country he loved. Donald followed a long family tradition of military service. His father served in WWII, his brother, David in the US Navy, Danny in the US Marines in Vietnam, Steve in the US Navy in the Mediterranean, Marty who is active duty in the US Army, grandson, Jared Callahan who is US Navy active duty, as well as a niece and several nephews who have served. Donald was immensely proud of the service and sacrifices his family has made for America.

Donald was a strong man of faith. He loved his church, Cornerstone, in San Antonio, Texas. Pastors John and Matt Hagee helped him grow in the Lord and His Word through their ministry. Even with the move from San Antonio, Donald and Linda were faithful to watch online every Sunday morning. He loved the Lord with all his heart and soul.

He was a loving husband; giving, supportive, and always provided unconditional love. He loved his children and was so proud of each of their accomplishments. Donald was such a loving grandpa. His grandchildren and great grandchildren loved him, and he loved spoiling them. Donald’s happiest times were when the kids would come, and the house was filled with love and laughter.

He also loved playing cards with his sister, Ruthie and his nieces, Helen and Paula when they would come to visit. He enjoyed taking cruises, once he got over the initial shock of being on a big body of water. He did, however, avoid all windows and looking out over the water!
There are not enough words to express how deeply Donald will be missed. He was a man who loved greatly and was greatly loved.

On Wednesday afternoon, November 11, 2020 – Veteran’s Day – God called Donald home. It was difficult to let him go but it is a blessing beyond words to know that he is in the presence of God and that we will see him again in God’s time and in God’s tomorrow.

Donald, you are a warrior and now your battle is over. Your family promises you we will continue with the legacy you left us, and we will make you proud! We love you. Life will never be the same without you.

Donald’s family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and doctors at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest for taking such wonderful care of our beloved one. You made his last days easier for him and all his family. We will forever be thankful and appreciative to each one of you.