Donald Raymond Houlihan

Donald Raymond Houlihan, 58 of Abilene, passed away on March 3, 2012 at his home near Buffalo Gap, TX surrounded by his loving family. A service honoring Don's life will be held at 2:00 pm Thursday March 8, 2012 at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene, followed by a gathering of family and friends.

Donald was born in Rising Star, Texas to Ronald and Joyce Houlihan on January 23, 1954. He joined the army in 1971, and after a three year commitment he was honorably discharged at Fort Dix, New Jersey in 1974. Five years later on June 30, 1979 Don married Pauline Doonan in Zillah, Washington. They had one child, a daughter, born in 1986. Together, Don and Pauline have owned and operated DJ’s Appliance Repair from 1979 to 1994 and Abilene Appliance Parts since 1994, which is still serving Abilene and the surrounding area today.

Don enjoyed drag racing, and was a member of Big Country Pacers car club. Fishing was one of Don's favorite pastimes and he was a member of the Abilene 35 Bass Club. He was also an avid hunter, and enjoyed teaching others about wildlife conservation. He enjoyed life, was full of charisma, and had a great sense of humor.

Surviving Don are his wife Pauline of Abilene, his daughter, Cassie Collazo and her husband Tony, his parents Ron and Joyce Houlihan of Abilene, his sister Nita Keesee and her husband Alvin, his two brothers Dwayne Houlihan and his wife Cindy, and Terry Houlihan. He will be greatly missed by many other extended family members and very close friends.

Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com. Any flowers or plants may be sent to Piersall Benton Funeral Home at 733 Butternut in Abilene, or donations may be made to Hendrick Hospice.