Donald William "Don" Byers 1947 - 2024

BYERS, SMUTZLER

Posted By: Connie J Swearingen (email)
Date: 8/9/2024 at 16:29:11

Sioux City Journal
3 August 2024

Donald William "Don" Byers

Sioux City

Donald William "Don" Byers, 76, of Sioux City, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at a care center in Kingsley, Iowa. Don lived a life filled with purpose and dedication to his family, country, and community.

A Funeral Service to honor and celebrate Don's life will be held at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel on Sunday, August 4th at 3:00 P.M. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Lincoln Memorial in Lincoln, NE.

Born on August 21, 1947, in Correctionville, Iowa, Don's journey was one of compassion, service, and love. He attended Central High School and graduated in 1965. Don served his country as a proud States Army Veteran during the Vietnam War. His bravery and commitment shone brightly as he was distinguished with a meritorious service award in Company A, 7th Support Battalion, 199th Light Infantry Brigade. He was honorably discharged on September 17, 1968. Don married Janice Smutzler on March 6, 1992, in Sioux City. She preceded Don in death on July 23, 2020.

Don's professional legacy was marked by a remarkable 40-year tenure as a Production Supervisor for Braunger Meats before retiring in 2007. Throughout his career, he exemplified hard work and reliability that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Don enjoyed playing pool and being part of various pool and dart leagues. He cherished his poker nights with buddies, but above all else he valued time spent with his beloved family. His presence lit up the room when attending his great grandkids' sports events and activities, and he was a very loving and supportive family man.

Don will forever remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He is survived by his daughter: Lori (Chuck) Schwahn of Lincoln, NE; grandchildren: Bobby (Jamie) Bratvold, Ryan (Addison) Bratvold, Tim (Chloe) Bratvold, Sarah May, and Stacy Cink; 12 great-grandchildren; siblings Kathy (Vance) Donnelly of Jackson, NE, Karen Hulin of Carroll IA, Dennis (Pattama) Byers of Las Vegas NV; stepbrothers: Rodney Mahon and Bill Mahon; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Janice Byers; mother Florence Mahon; father Charles Byers; stepfather James Mahon; son Tim Bratvold; and a niece Amanda Jo Donnelly.

In Lieu of Flowers, Memorials may be given to Lincoln Memorial in Lincoln, Nebraska for Don and Janice's headstone.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Midwest and the Kingsley Care Facility for taking such good care of our loved one in his final week.