Don Gordon Folkerts of Spring, Texas, passed away surrounded by family on January 12, 2026, at the age of 84.

Don grew up in Reinbeck, Iowa, and retired from John Deere after 30 years of dedicated service. Soon after his retirement, Don and the love of his life, Jane, moved to Texas to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Don quickly found himself owning and operating a plant nursery, which he and Jane enjoyed for many years before finally retiring for good. He then devoted his time to shuttling his grandchildren back and forth to "the ranch," where he spent countless hours making memories with them.

Throughout his life, Don—known lovingly as Papa—was defined by his deep devotion to his family in Texas and Iowa. Don loved spending time with family, enjoying a good meal, playing his favorite game of cribbage, and always brought a smile with his quick wit. His love for each member of his family was unmistakable and deeply cherished by all who knew him. Don's love of the Lord was equally evident, as he always encouraged those to attend church and love each other. Don was a devoted member of Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Spring, Texas, where he and Jane could always be found attending Saturday evening Mass.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Jane; his children Kip Folkerts (Serena), Kelly Buckner (Bill), Kirk Folkerts (Mandy), and Karen Burns (Bruce); and was blessed with 10 grandchildren. His grandchildren are Ashley Wurster (Brad), Kolton Folkerts (Larson), Lily Folkerts (Brenen), Landon Folkerts (Alyssa), Peyton Burns (Patty), Maddy Folkerts, Chandler Yerex (Cody), Presley Bates (Jake), and Pryce Burns. Don was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren: Mason, Easton, Reagan, Decklyn, Hayes, Carson, Reid, Callen, Hallie, Paylin, Jack, Jett, Emory, and Pryor-Kate.

In addition, Don is survived by his siblings Darrell Folkerts (Elaine), Joyce Holman, Janet Brown, JoAnn Witt (Glen), and June Heidemann (Dale), along with many nieces and nephews who loved him immensely.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Verina Folkerts; his brother, Dale Folkerts; his brothers-in-law, Don Brown and Lynn Holman and his beloved grandson, Hudson Folkerts.

We will celebrate Don's life on Tuesday, January 20th at 11am at Christ the Good Shepherd in Spring, Texas. After mass Don will be laid to rest in a private graveside service.

From Jane and the entire family, thank you for the countless calls, texts, and prayers during this difficult time.