Donald Wayne Schaberg Jr., 82, of Houston, passed away on April 10, 2025. He was born December 19th, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri to the late Donald Schaberg Sr. and Rosemary (Lutkewitte) Schaberg.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Schaberg; oldest child, Kat Schaberg, son and daughter-in-law, Daniel (Erika) Schaberg; daughter and son-in-law, Allison (James) Hoop; son, Michael Schaberg; sister, Jill McCarthy; grandson, Nathan (Christian) Schaberg; grandson, Noah (Olivia) Schaberg; grandson, Elijah Schaberg; granddaughter, Madison Hoop; grandson, Jeremy Shipley; and granddaughter, RaeAnne Shipley.

Including his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Lang and brother, Jack Schaberg.

Born with a spirit of service and strength, Don proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. His courage and commitment never wavered, and those values remained at the heart of everything he did throughout his life.

In 1970, Don married the love of his life, Deborah, beginning a partnership that would span 54 wonderful years. Together they built a home full of warmth, laughter, and love—a place where family came first, and memories were made around the dinner table.

A true outdoorsman, Don found joy in camping trips, where he was famous for his campfire chili, a recipe only rivaled by the love he poured into every gathering. Saturdays were sacred in the Schaberg household, as Don hosted weekly dinners—a tradition that brought the whole family together, no matter the season.

His grandchildren were the light of his life. He went out of his way to ensure that every holiday was a magical experience, filled with wonder and tradition. Whether it was decorating the house or preparing a special meal, Don made sure that each moment was unforgettable.

Don also had a unique passion for collecting nutcrackers, a hobby that became a festive symbol of the joy he brought into every room and season.

Donald Wayne Schaberg Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and togetherness. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, April 15th at 10am, with a visitation starting at 9am, at Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Dr., Spring, Texas 77379, with Elijah Schaberg officiating. Interment to follow in Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77038.

Serving as pallbearers are Noah Schaberg, Elijah Schaberg, Michael Schaberg, Daniel Schaberg, Christian Schaberg, Nathan Schaberg, Henry Ballard, James Hoop.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warrior Project and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .