Don Louis Gant's Obituary
Don Louis Gant, 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Ascension St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Born in a barn on October 29, 1938, in Seminole, Oklahoma, Don was the son of Louis and Clemie (Cox) Gant. He spent his early years in Seminole before moving to Tulsa and eventually settling in Glenpool while in the fourth grade, where he attended Lowell School on North Independence Street in North Tulsa.
Don proudly served his country, beginning with the Oklahoma National Guard from 1956-1957, before joining the United States Air Force in 1957. As a crew chief on the B-47 Bomber, the first jet bomber of its kind, Don served with distinction at various locations including Alaska, Washington, French Morocco, and South Africa. His home base was Homestead Air Force Base in Florida. Don was immensely proud of his military service and the important role he played in aviation history.
In 1962, Don married Linda (Rush), and together they raised their family in Berryville, Oklahoma. After their divorce, Don married Freda (Dreadfulwater) in 1980, and the couple made Tulsa their home.
Don was known for his bright personality and wonderful sense of humor. He never left anyone wondering what he was thinking and could joke around with the best of them. His favorite expressions, "I'll kick your ass" or "I'll shoot 'em," were delivered with his characteristic wit that endeared him to everyone he met.
A natural athlete, Don played football in school and remained active throughout his life. He was an avid golfer who achieved the remarkable feat of shooting his age at 74 at Cotton Creek Golf Course. Don also enjoyed bowling and made several trips to the U.S. Nationals, with his high game being an impressive 297.
Don's love for sprint car racing led him to serve on Mike Goodman's pit crew team. He was affectionately known as "Grandpa" throughout the car racing scene and everywhere he went, a testament to his warm and welcoming nature.
Travel was another passion, and Don enjoyed vacations to Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, and Cabo. He was a devoted fan of the Oklahoma Sooners and loved attending car races. Above all, Don treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.
Don is survived by his five children: Robert Gant and wife Charlotte of Parsons, Kansas; Randy Gant of Tulsa; Bruce McIntosh of Tulsa; and Tammie Green and husband Roy of Oakhurst and James Clifton Gant (preceded in death). He leaves behind 12 grandchildren: John Hull (Carly Glover) of Claremore; Jennifer Cloud and husband Johnny of Sand Springs; Jamie Leyva of Tulsa; JR Green and wife Tasha of Oakhurst; Ray and Gina Green of Oakhurst; Robyn Maples and Leah Gant of Parsons, Kansas; Natalie Schock and husband Jake of Island Village, TX; Cody Gant and wife, Traci of Sperry; Brittany Gant of Tulsa; and Ragan Andersen of Tulsa. Don also leaves behind 29 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
A funeral ceremony with U.S. Air Force military honors will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 18th in the Rivercrest Chapel located at 13329 S Memorial Dr, Bixby, OK. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Drumright. The family will receive visitors from 5PM -7 PM Thursday evening, July 17th.
Don's legacy of service, humor, and love for family will be remembered by all who knew him. His spirit lives on in the hearts of his large and loving family and the many friends whose lives he touched with his warmth and laughter.
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