Don Zachary Clapp
September 1, 1951
January 13, 2025
Don Zachary Clapp, 73, of Salado, Texas, passed away on January 13, 2025, after a courageous health battle, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 1, 1951, in Uvalde, Texas, Don’s life was a testament to selflessness, love, and service.
Don was a devoted father to Natalie Reichert and Jenny Osborne, a proud stepfather to Matthew Smith, and a cherished grandfather to David Reichert (24), Alexa Reichert (23), Alana Osborne (21), Andrew Reichert (17), Zachary Osborne (14), and Caeli Reichert (7). He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Melba Clapp, of Salado, Texas, and his beloved granddaughter, Katlyn Osborne. He is survived by his brothers, Andy Clapp and David Clapp, with whom he shared a lifelong bond.
Don was a man of integrity and compassion. A former coach who later served as an investigator for the state of Texas, he made a meaningful impact through his career. A graduate of Southwest Texas State University, he played baseball for the university while his mother proudly cheered him on, knitting in the stands. Growing up, Don was a talented athlete, earning the title of Little League Home Run King and captaining his high school baseball team in his senior year.
A faithful member of the Church of Christ in Salado, Don’s love for the Lord was central to his life. He found joy in serving others, whether it was cooking pancakes for breakfast alongside his brother Andy for the Lions Club or helping with various other projects. Don also made a notable mark in politics, contributing to campaigns for public servants, working alongside Governor Mark White as his Education Analyst, and even running for school board. His mischievously contrarian political opinions and a knack for stirring up debates, earned him recognition on a national stage, being highlighted twice on the Bill O’Reilly show.
Don’s humor, generosity, and selflessness touched everyone he met. He had a unique ability to care for others while never seeking attention for himself. He was always there for his brother Andy, kept a promise to his father by caring for his beloved mother, Melba, until her passing in October 2024, and welcomed both people and animals into his home with open arms. His devotion to his mom was unmatched-he would take her to Hobby Lobby, where she shopped every aisle, while he patiently followed behind. They always left with more flowers and blue vases than they ever intended, but Don wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Don was a good ole boy through and through, happiest behind the wheel of his truck. One of his favorites, lovingly called Old Paint, became legendary in the family because it could only hit 55 mph downhill on a windy day. But Don wasn’t about flash-he never tried to impress anyone. He was simply himself: genuine, kind, and full of wit.
Don’s love for animals was legendary-he would take in any creature needing a home, including a friend’s pet sheep, which he once walked on a leash to make sure it got enough attention. He was also joyfully duped by his grandchildren into buying a pony, only to later discover it was pregnant. Naturally, he embraced the surprise foal with open arms and an even bigger heart. That little foal, Mushu, quickly became more of a dog than a pony-wandering into the house, riding around in the golf cart, and maintaining the boss title wherever she went. And we would be amiss ifwe failed to mention that nearly all of Don’s beloved pets, regardless of species, were named Toby-except for Mushu, of course, who clearly deserved her own special name.
A man of great humor, Don gave everyone he met a nickname, each one a perfect reflection of his quick wit and deep affection. He was also so easy to talk to-when you sought his advice, he wouldn’t tell you what to do but would gently guide you to search your heart, helping you find your own answers. It was his way of empowering those around him while quietly offering his wisdom.
He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love, endless laughter, and steadfast commitment. His family will forever treasure his quick wit, his boundless devotion, and the invaluable lessons he taught through his actions. Don never saw the need to judge anyone; instead, he chose to see the good in every person he met. He instilled in his children the wisdom that life was too short to hold onto grudges-encouraging them to let go of the bad and focus on loving the person. His legacy of kindness, acceptance, and grace will continue to guide his family for generations to come.
A memorial to celebrate Don’s life will be held on February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Christ in Salado, Texas, located at 217 N Stagecoach Rd. Flowers may be sent to Broecker Funeral Home at 949 W Village Rd, Salado, TX 76571.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Salado Church of Christ or the Fairhill School of Dallas and Diagnostic Center, where Don’s grandson Andrew is a student.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Joe Keyes for his spiritual guidance and to Carina, Marta, and Vicente for their loving care and support for Don and Melba in their later years.
Don’s life was a true reflection of selflessness, love, and humor, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by all.