Donald Lee Chamrad

Donald Lee Chamrad of Beeville, Texas passed from this life into the next on May 9, 2025, at the age of 85. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Norma.

Don was born July 27, 1939, in Mathis, Texas, to Albert Phillip Chamrad and Margaret Irene (Shepherd) Chamrad. He married Norma Jean Burns in Beeville on May 18, 1968, and was a member of Friendship Baptist Church. He was a graduate of Texas A&I, Kingsville, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in ranch management. He was a proud member of the rodeo team, engaging in the saddle bronc events that highlighted his adventurous spirit. Don had a long and successful career as a ranch manager. His journey took him through numerous notable ranches, including the Wicker Ranch and May Ranch in Beeville, where he ultimately retired. He also spent time working at the Burr Ranch in Brackettville and Salt Creek Ranch. Later in his career, Don transitioned to real estate, where he became a realtor and broker serving the Beeville community.

In his younger years, Don had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hunting. These activities brought him great joy and connected him with nature, providing cherished memories over the years.

Just a year prior to his passing, Don experienced the loss of his beloved wife, Norma Jean Chamrad, who departed this life on April 2, 2024. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Irene Chamrad; sister, Patsy Bond; and brothers, Frank, Dean and Scotty Chamrad.

Survivors include his son, Charlie (Roxanne) Porter; daughters, Kim (Steve) Huddleston, Lisa (Craig) Hardin and Kara (Russell) Wood; as well as his grandchildren, Jeff (Mindy) Huddleston, Jessica (Bryan) Chappelear, Travis (Mary Ashleigh) Huddleston, Morgan (Amanda) Porter, Maegan (Stephen) Kosub, Allison (TJ) Wilburn, Laura Beth (Riley) Totten, Jana Henderson, Josh (Tarrah) Wood and Sidney (Brandon) Gutierrez.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Beeville Memorial Park.