Dr. Donald Gene Beyer was born August 24, 1953 to Virgil and Marietta Beyer in Hutchinson, Kansas. He graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 1971. Subsequently, he attended Emporia State University and Southwestern Oklahoma State University, where he received a degree in pharmacy. He then attended the University of North Texas, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he received his doctorate in osteopathic medicine. Don practiced family medicine and pharmacy in rural Texas, and emergency medicine in Michigan and Pennsylvania. In 1999, Don married Carol Ann Archambault. They retired to Lake Wales, Florida to spend time together, sing in various choirs, play golf, and fish to their hearts’ content!
Dr. Donald Gene Beyer was preceded in death by his young son, Carl Andrew Beyer, and grandson, Justin Samuel McGaughy, among other dear family and friends. Don is survived by ten children and 30 grandchildren: Jenny and Sam McGaughy of Perryton, Texas and their children, Molly, Maisy, and Jake. Joe and Tiffany Beyer of Dublin, Ohio and their children, Nolan, Elizabeth, Lorelai, Amelia, and Andrew. Phillip and Heather Beyer of Santo, Texas and their daughter, Anarenee. Katie and Thomas Gerbino of Macomb, Michigan and their children, Jacob, Cailyn, Natalie, Declan, Bella Rose, Emma, William and Ellie. Emily and Derek Gray of Sunray, Texas and their children, Mia, Mason, and Maddox. Stephen Frassrand of Acworth, Georgia and his children, Parker and Shaina. Gregory and Linda Frassrand of Alpharetta, Georgia and their children Matthew, Stephanie, and Megan. David and Kathe Frassrand of Ann Arbor, Michigan and their sons Noah and Hylan. Peter and Karina Frassrand of Kensington, Maryland and their children Lucas and Kaija. “Donnie” as his immediate family like to call him, is survived by two brothers and three sisters and their spouses: Rick Beyer, Ted Hardeman, Ellen and Ron Cramer, Diana and Bob Korczynski, and Connie and Dale Bollig.
When he wasn’t working (which was a lot…), Don filled his life with music and sports. Early in his adult life, he started directing choirs and singing at church. He taught children and adults to love music and praise the Lord with song. This passion was expanded after he married his long-awaited “accompanist”, Carol. They shared their ministry singing and directing various chorale groups including their beloved Schola Cantorum at Resurrection Catholic Church. His beautiful tenor voice was loved and appreciated by all who listened. Don loved baseball. He spent extensive time coaching the game, pushing young ballplayers to their full potential and creating opportunities. He even built a youth baseball complex in rural Boyd, Texas for generations to enjoy. Fishing was his passion. He spent many a long sunny day on his boat tracking down “the big one” while enjoying time with kids, grandkids, and friends. Don enjoyed cards and games, going out to eat, going shopping, and just being around people, as many of his numerous friends will attest. He was also a talented artist and did many pencil drawings of things and people that meant the most to him. Don even won some art awards along the way! Don really enjoyed feeding people! No one ever left his home hungry. He and Carol generously shared their bounty with those less fortunate by making and delivering homemade soup weekly to a local soup kitchen for many years.
Dr. Beyer also touched so many lives in his calling as a healer. He practiced family medicine and emergency medicine for over 27 years. Dr. Beyer was known for his diagnostic ability, critical thinking, and understanding of pharmacology, but most of all, his uncanny ability to understand pain and sense fear in his patients.
Dr. Donald Beyer was a joyful presence in everyone’s lives and a one-of-a kind jokester. He left a legacy in everything he did……from medicine, drawing, singing, sports, music, fishing, and most importantly how to love without limit. This one-of-a-kind man will be missed by all who encountered him.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”
Jeremiah 29:11
Dr. Donald Beyer’s “Celebration of Life” will take place at
Resurrection Catholic Church, Monday, June 20, 2022 at 11 am.
Luncheon to follow by RSVP only
Memorials in lieu of flowers to the “Bach Festival Society of Winter Park”
Resurrection Catholic Church
333 Terrace Way
Lakeland, FL 33813
https://www.resurrectionwg.org
*Funeral Mass will be live-streamed for viewing
Bach Festival Society of Winter Park
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