DONALD

Donald R. Peikert, 82, of Alleyton, passed away peacefully on Aug. 18, surrounded by his children and loved ones.

Donald was born on Dec. 30, 1943, to Julius and Mary Peikert. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic and a sense of adventure that shaped his life.

He proudly served in the National Guard from 1963 to 1967. Shortly after beginning his military service, Donald entered the oil industry, launching a 44-year career that took him across Texas, Louisiana, and around the world.

In 1965, Donald began working as a roughneck in the Gulf of Mexico with Ocean Drilling and Exploration Company. In 1967, he joined Field International Drilling, working throughout Texas and Louisiana before his career expanded internationally.

During the early 1970s, Donald worked on offshore drilling projects in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. He helped build and move drilling rigs and spent time in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, be-fore continuing throughout the region. His work carried him into the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca, and later into the Java Sea, working out of Jakarta, Indonesia, and living for several years in Singapore.

After returning to the United States in the late 1970s, Donald continued in the oil industry with land and offshore drilling operations throughout Texas and Louisiana. He later served as a consultant with Greenwood Drilling and Shell Petroleum Company, specializing in offshore operations.

In 1994, Donald founded Donald Peikert Drilling Company, where he continued consulting and sharing his expertise until his retirement in 2009.

In retirement, Donald enjoyed a quieter life on his farm. He also found great enjoyment in hunting and traveling with friends through the Retired Texas Rangers Association, where he built meaningful and lasting friendships.

Donald will be remembered for his determination, independence, and adventurous spirit. He lived a life defined by hard work, travel, and deep loyalty to family and friends.

He is survived by his children, Craig Peikert and wife Kristy; Donna Branch and husband Keith; Jonathan Peikert and wife Brandy; and his grandchildren, Nicholas Branch, Austin Peikert, Dylan Peikert, and Aiden Branch. He is also survived by his siblings, Doris Guthmann, Jerry Peikert, and Tim Peikert, along with companion Virgie Neisner, extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Mary Peikert, and his siblings, Earnest Peikert and Clarice Flatt.

Donald’s life reflected perseverance, exploration, and devotion to family. His presence will be deeply missed and long remembered.

Visitation will be Thursday, Aug. 27, from 5-7 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas.

Funeral service will be Friday, Aug. 28, at 2 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home with Pastor Victor Morrison officiating.

Burial will follow in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus, Texas. A reception will be held afterwords at Pilsner’s Place, 4945 Highway 90, Alleyton, TX 78935.

Pallbearers are Matt Priest, Justin Guthmann, Corey Peikert, Josh Guthmann, Grayson Munsch, Dylan Peikert, Austin Peikert, and Nicholas Branch. Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Rester, Ben Munsch, James Guthmann, Ray Martinez, Mark Carroll, and George Parrett.

Memorials may be given to Alleyton Community Cemetery Association, 805 Taylor St., Alleyton, TX 78935 or Bernardo Volunteer Fire Department, 2845 FM 949, Cat Spring, TX 78933.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.