Donaciano Roman "Don" Casares Sr.

January 12, 1942 - January 18, 2022

Donaciano “Don” Casares passed away on January 18, 2022 at the age of 80, in his hometown of Grand Island, Nebraska. He spent his last days with his family and close friends by his side, with such bravery and courage. Despite the pain, Don came out a hero and stayed strong until the end. Don touched so many lives, as he never made anyone feel as if they weren’t family, he treated everyone with respect and so much love. Always there to help or just to listen. He gave the best advice, and mostly the best hugs, He had smile that could brighten up the sky. Don never turned a soul away, in his eyes everyone meant something even if at the time that person couldn’t see it. That is what made him special to so many. Don was born January 12th 1942 in Morton Texas to Benito R Casares sr and Ernestina (Ofelia) Roman. Siblings are Benito (Rosie) Casares jr, Sylvia (Efrain) Lazarin, Sandra Casares Patton, Chonita (Robert) Lade, Rosie Casares Martinez, Thelma (Luis) Cruz, and Carpio (Diana) Casares with numerous nephews and nieces. Don met the love of his life Sharon K Smith, while Sharon was working as a bell hop. He says he fell in love with her blue beehive! It was love at first sight. They got married in 1964 and went on to have 8 children, adopting their grandson. Don’s strong work ethic began when he was a young boy, working in the fields with his parents. He relayed that even when he wasn’t old enough to actually work with crops, he carried water to those who were. He made many trips in a day’s time to bring a refreshing drink to those who were hot and tired. In between trips he and his brother Benny entertained themselves and tried to stay out of trouble. Don’s memories of his early years were of traveling across the country, following the harvest season, working hard, and good times with the families that traveled with he and his family. When the Casares family settled in Grand Island, Nebraska, Don attended school, then went to work to help his parents. As a young man, Don enjoyed playing ball, bowling and going to dances. He was always ready for good music. He was also on a Golden Gloves boxing team. Don worked with Diamond Engineering for approximately 48 years, taking his well-earned retirement in 2006. Several concrete projects in the area, demonstrate the talents of Don and his crew. He always encouraged his sons and other young men to find a trade and do their best. One of those young men from years past remembers Don for “giving me a job, when no one else would. I will always remember him for that.” Those left behind to carry on his legacy are Vinita (Larry) Garzee, Christina (Gustavo) Martinez, Lisa (Jose) Espinoza, Don (Junior) Casares, Carpio Casares, Benita Casares, Lasado Casares and Justyce Casares. 36 grandchildren, 59 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren. Don was proceeded in death by both parents Benito Sr, Ofelia Casares, His wife Sharon K Casares, two sons Troy and Raymond Eugene Casares, grand children Michael, Adam, Angel, Serena and Jacob. Visiting hours are from 4 – 7 pm, with a rosary to follow from 7-8pm on Wednesday 1/26/2022 at all faiths funeral home, Thursday 1/27/2022 funeral services will start at 10amat all faiths funeral home following a catholic mass at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, burial at the Grand Island cemetery. Following the funeral service there will be lunch served at Saint Mary’s