On June 23, 2019 Walter “Richard” Donnell (79) of Houston, Texas, left his earthly body behind and took his first breath in Heaven. There he was welcomed by his lord and savior Jesus Christ, his cherished wife Marjorie Donnell, and many friends and relatives.

Richard was born in Houston on April 7, 1940. He married his high school sweetheart, “Margie” in 1960. They were blessed with three beautiful girls who they considered their pride and joy. A devoted husband and father, Richard poured his life into his family. He not only taught his girls how to hunt, fish and waterski, but also considered them his best buddies in these pursuits. Although he worked long hours, Richard never missed the opportunity for late-night talks with his girls.

As a Christ follower, Richard considered it a privilege to father others, and poured out God’s wisdom, grace and mercy to all he encountered. He had a special place in his heart for kids others may have seen as challenging, and found great joy in loving them deeply. A teacher and mentor to many, Richard enjoyed discipling junior high boys at church, playing basketball with neighborhood kids, teaching people to waterski, and graciously tutoring his girls’ friends. He was a natural born mentor.

Richard was a man of great honesty and integrity, and pursued excellence in everything he did. An engineer by trade, Richard could fix just about anything—and this he did for many people, including several hearts. He was a loyal employee, as indicated by a 50-year career with Custom Rubber Products where he served at Vice President and was a brilliant mold designer. He was known for his motto “A lazy man works twice,” something he never had to do because of his commitment to excellence.

In his spare time, Richard could be found behind his grill, perfecting a juicy delight for his family. He was also an avid photographer, loved hot rods and boats, and welcomed a challenging home improvement project. An athletic guy himself, Richard especially loved the game of basketball and played in a church fellowship league. He followed all things sports and was an avid Texans and Astros and Rockets fan.

During his long battle with illness, Richard fought hard, never gave up, and rarely complained, earning the affectionate nickname “Superman.” He was always gracious to his caregivers and won the hearts of his doctors, nurses and staff.

Richard will be remembered for his generous heart and big, tight hugs.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Richard is survived by his sister, Myrna Butterfras; his brother, Doug Donnell (Barbara Donnell); and three daughters Diana Carr (Danny Carr), Anita Birdwell (Brad Birdwell), and Andrea Donnell-Fowler (Colt Fowler); eleven grandchildren, Jennifer Carr, Jake Carr (Tracy Carr), Josh Carr, Juliana Carr, Jessica Boyd (Tyler Boyd), Jarrod Birdwell, Montana Farrington (Joel Farrington), Rylan (engaged to Patrick Severance), Garrett Fowler, Weston Fowler, and Kendall Fowler; two great grandchildren, Asher and Brady Boyd; two soon-arriving great granddaughters; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation:
Wednesday, June 26th, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Rosewood Funeral Home
2602 South Houston Avenue
Humble, TX

Celebration of Life:
Thursday, June 27th, 10:00 a.m.
Champion Forest Baptist Church
15555 Stuebner-Airline Rd.
Houston, TX.

Graveside service:
2:00 p.m.
Rosewood Funeral Home
2602 South Houston Avenue
Humble, TX