Donald Glenn Behrends
Donald Glenn Behrends, 70, passed away on Friday, Feb. 16, at home in Livingston, Texas, with his wife by his side.
Don was born April 17, 1947, in Monticello. He was the son of Glenn and Bernice (Wenger) Behrends. Don graduated from Monticello High School in 1966, and enlisted in the United States Air Force in January of 1967. He was a member of the elite USAF Pararescue group and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He also assisted with the NASA Space Capsule Recovery Program missions based out of Houston, Texas. He was honorably discharged on Feb. 16, 1971.
Don continued to live in Texas after his discharge, having many different occupations: salesman, insurance agent and insurance adjuster. He worked for Gary and Ellen Hartley, of Stiping Systems, in McKinney. While in McKinney, he also worked as a home builder, remodeler and handyman. In later years, he worked for his friend, Paul Davis, of Mr. Oliver’s Tractors, picking up and delivering equipment and motorhomes. In retirement, he worked driving a tour bus for Troubador, Texas, selling guns for Cabela’s Sporting Goods and at several other jobs. Don could fix just about anything. He was constantly fixing equipment for neighbors and friends.
Even though Texas became his home, his roots ran deep in Monticello. Don enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing and boating. He also enjoyed returning to Iowa for his high school class of 1966 reunions and over the years managed to attend several of them.
He is survived by his wife, Liz; his son, Kelly; three sisters: Beverly (Richard) Becker, Donna Tenhoff, Grace (Dale) Zimmerman; Liz’s children: Hans Kurtz and Gretchen Dixon; and grandchildren: Mackenzie, Madeline and Zane. Also left to treasure his memory are six nephews, two nieces, several great nieces and nephews, three aunts and two sisters-in-law.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tom; two nephew; one niece; and his mother-in-law.
A private family interment with military honors will be held in Oakwood Cemetery, Monticello on Friday, April 27, and a visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday night at the Goettsch Funeral Home, Monticello. Thoughts, memories and condolences may be left at www.goettschonline.com.
