Don Alan Frasier, 83, of Minden, Louisiana, died Tuesday at Willis Knighton North in Shreveport after a brief illness.
Although his charm, wit, and intellect are no longer with us, he is survived by his wife Anna Mikitsch and four children: Don (Gabi) Frasier of Berthoud, CO, Belinda Frasier of Oregon, Rebecca (Bert) Hogg of Ruston, LA and Donna (Pablo) Melendez of Springfield, VA. He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Lane, Anna, and Gary Frasier and Adrianna Melendez as well as one great-grandchild, Harmon Fink.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, David and Edna, three brothers (William, Bobby, and Billy), and four sisters (Maurice, Anita, Betty, and Joan).
His bravery, loyalty, diligence, and devotion to duty during the Second Korean War and the Vietnam War earned him two Bronze Stars. His service in the infantry always landed him in the thick of the fighting. Due to his organizational abilities and attention to detail, he was transferred to Bad Hersfeld, Germany where, under his leadership, the motor pool went from receiving a failing grade during inspection to a perfect score the following year. He was also awarded two Army Commendation Medals for his acts of heroism and meritorious service. He retired from the U.S. Army as a Master Sergeant in 1970.
Upon retiring from the military, he started his second career at Evergreen Presbyterian Vocational School in Evergreen. He was in charge of operations of the school and was instrumental in its expansion. He worked tirelessly to ensure the needs of the residents were satisfied for 24 years and was awarded a Certification of Recognition of Behavior Management and Control of Mentally Handicapped Adults for his efforts.
His third career was spent perfecting his spicy barbeque sauce and smoked ham recipes.
Cremation will take place at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden, LA. Memorial services will be scheduled at a later date.
Rose-Neath Funeral Home
211 Murrell Street
Minden, Louisiana 71055
(318) 377-3412 Fax (318) 377-0227