Donald Abrams Jr.

Donald C. Abrams Jr., 68 of Helotes, Texas, passed away on Thursday December 15, 2016, while in the care of hospice. Don was born May 26, 1948 in Ft. Collins Colorado to Donald C. Sr., and Mary H. Abrams. \r\n\r\nDon grew up in Denver Colorado; he was involved in church youth group, played trumpet in his high school band and was on the school swim team. At the age of eight, Don joined cub scouts, going on to earn the Eagle Scout award. During summers he was a caddy at Green Gables Country club, being in demand because of his quiet nature and demeanor. He graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1966. In July of 1966, Don fulfilled his childhood dream of joining the Navy and becoming a Navy Seal.During Don's first tour of duty in Viet Nam with Seal Team One, he was injured and subsequently retired from the Navy. He earned the National Defense Medal and a Purple Heart for his service. Don returned home and attended Metro State College earning a degree in Respiratory Therapy. On September 3, 1969, Don married Alva Koeteouw.To this union two children, Eric and April were born. In 1976, Don moved his family to San Antonio to take a position at Fort Sam Houston as a Respiratory Therapy instructor. He continued his career at what was then Brooks Army Medical Center and retired in 2009. Before and after retirement Don spent several years volunteering as a hunting guide at Camp Bullis. Don was involved as a Boy Scout leader being awarded the Scouter's Key and the Silver Beaver Award. Don was an avid hunter and fisherman with many mounted trophies. Don was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. \r\n\r\nHe was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents, Donald C. Sr. and Mary H. Abrams. \r\n\r\nHe is survived by his wife of 47 years, Alva S. Abrams, son Eric (Cissy), daughter, April Pennington (Patrick), grandson, Leyton, sister, Karen Maelzer (Vernon), three nephews and wives, three great nieces, three cousins, mother-in-law, Anna May Koeteouw, and many friends and associates. \r\n\r\nServices will be held Thursday December 29th at Forrest Hill Presbyterian Church, Helotes Tx, with Reverend Vernon Maelzer (brother-in-law) officiating. Viewing will be held from-9:30a-10a, with service beginning at 10am. Internment at Fort Sam Houston with full military honors will begin at 1:45. \r\n\r\nMemorials may be given to the Alamo Area Council of Boy Scouts-San Antonio Texas- #583, or an organization of the donor's choice. \r\n\r\n