Donald Arthur Pace, Jr.

Donald Arthur Pace, Jr., passed away on March 12, 2022 with his family by his side.

To honor Don's wishes, no services will be held. Arrangements are by Schooler Funeral Home.

Don was born December 6, 1943 in Picher, OK to Donald and Elizabeth Pace. In 1944, his family moved to Amarillo, TX where Don grew up. After graduating from high school and Amarillo Junior College, he enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin where he received a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 1967.

Following graduation, he was employed by an oil and gas firm in New Orleans, LA. In late 1968, duty called and he enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He entered OCS and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. In 1969, he left for Vietnam. Upon his return to the states, he went to visit friends in Austin, TX and met a girl name Beverly. Two days later, he reported for duty at Coronado NAS. There he attained the rank of Captain and was discharged in 1970.

Deciding on a career change, he wrote down two goals: earn an MPA and find Beverly. In 1971, he enrolled at UT Austin in the MPA program. He found and married Beverly in San Antonio in 1972. Don completed degree requirements for the MPA in 1973. For the next 20 years, he built a successful career as a CPA, tax accountant, comptroller, financial planner, and registered investment advisor with several San Antonio firms. In 1988, Don joined Netting & Falls, CPAs. In 2001, he became an owner and the name of the firm changed to Netting & Pace, CPAs. Don enjoyed working with his clients and served as a mentor to the employees. When the firm was acquired by Exencial Wealth Advisors in 2016, Don continued assisting clients with tax and financial planning until his passing.

Don held membership in many professional organizations. He also supported many charitable organizations giving of his time and talents. In his “spare time”, Don had many interests and hobbies. Don loved photography and took many classes to learn about his equipment and how to take great pictures. Many of his photographs are displayed in his and Beverly’s home.

Don took up bike riding, joining groups of friends for long rides in Texas and Santa Fe, NM. Another past time he enjoyed was fishing-fly fishing for trout in Colorado or salmon or red fish in the Gulf of Mexico, or for pike in Canada. His interest in skiing took him to the mountains of Colorado and the slopes in Germany, Italy, and Austria.

Don and Beverly took many trips to National Parks in the US. They enjoyed visiting many countries in Europe and South Africa with friends. Travel included cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean. At home, Don’s enjoyment of working with wood resulted in the design of pieces of furniture, cabinets, and customized closets.

Don possessed a spirit and drive to be a life-long learner. He willingly shared his expertise and knowledge volunteering to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and family. He treasured his wife, Beverly and son, Jeffery and his family and friends. Don will remain in our hearts forever.

Don was a Life-Member of Texas Exes. Donations in Don’s memory can be made to Texas Exes Forty Acres Scholars Program, https://www.texasexes.org/scholarships/forty-acres-scholars-program or to a charity of your choice.