Donald "Don" Dale Holtz

Donald “Don” Dale Holtz, departed this life on Wednesday morning, February 4, 2026, at Beehive Homes in Tulsa, OK at the age of 90. He was born on May 11, 1935, in Floyd, IA, to Ernest and Margaret (Dodge) Holtz.

Don was raised in Iowa before his family moved to Tulsa in 1948. He attended Central High School in Tulsa, graduating in 1953. Following high school, Don continued working until October of 1954, when he proudly enlisted in the United States Army. While stationed in Germany, he served as a driver of a five-ton truck, transporting heavy equipment across challenging terrain. During his service, he also experienced the opportunity to travel throughout Europe, an adventure he often remembered fondly. He was honorably discharged as a Corporal.

Upon returning home, Don met the love of his life, Judith Ellen Williams. The two were married on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1958, in Tulsa, OK, beginning a love story that spanned more than six decades. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion to their family.

Don dedicated his professional life to engineering and design. After completing drafting studies at Okmulgee Tech, he began a long and successful career with Braden Steel Company, where he worked for 35 years as a draftsman and sales engineer. His talent for design and structural detailing helped build lasting professional relationships, including managing major accounts and traveling extensively throughout the United States and abroad. Though his work required long hours and travel, Don remained deeply committed to his family, working tirelessly to provide opportunities for his children and support their dreams.

After retirement, Don and Judy embraced the joy of travel, exploring the United States and Canada in their motorhome. Later in life, Don devoted himself to caring for Judy as her health declined, a reflection of the same love and faithfulness that defined their marriage.

Don had a true gift for craftsmanship and creativity. He loved woodworking, scroll saw projects, and building intricate 3D models. He took pride in keeping a beautiful yard, enjoyed fishing, camping in his motorhome, spending time outdoors, and cheering on his favorite teams—especially OU football and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Above all, Don treasured time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding his greatest happiness in being “Papa.”

Don is survived by his sons, Randy Holtz and wife Carla of Coweta, OK, and Russell Holtz of Garner, NC; his daughter, Rhonda Clerkin and husband Richard of Wilmington, NC; four grandchildren, Jared Holtz and wife Whitney of Wagoner, OK, Jordan Allen and husband Ryan of Broken Arrow, OK, Maggie Clerkin of Philadelphia, PA, and Thomas Clerkin and wife Sage of Beaufort, NC; eight great-grandchildren, Elexis, Daniela, Grayson, Wyatt, and Carly Holtz, Crew and Banks Allen, and Calder Clerkin; his sister-in-law, Pam Wisley and husband Max of Tulsa, OK; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith Ellen Holtz, his parents, two brothers, one sister.

Don’s life was a testament to dedication, kindness, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, service, and generosity will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Coweta Assembly in Coweta, OK, with Pastor Steve Lee officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Fort Gibson National Cemetery at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may made in memory of Don to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Foundation, https://okwildlifefoundation.harnessgiving.org/donate.

Family and friends are invited to share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Donald Dale Holtz entrusted his care and services to Brown’s Funeral & Cremation Service, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.