Donald "Don" Ray Eicher

Donald "Don" Ray Eicher, 85, of Vidor, Texas, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. A native of Hill City, Kansas, Don made Vidor, TX where he and his wife Stella raised their family, his home for many years, becoming a dedicated member of the community. His faith was central to his life—he was a former deacon at Trinity Baptist Church before becoming a member of First Baptist Church in Vidor. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam Conflict. Following his military service, he built a successful career in management, retiring after more than 30 years with James River Corporation. After Stella passed away in 1996, he didn’t let the word retirement slow him down as he soon became a successful entrepreneur and owner of Gary’s Gun Shop, DeFarmall Cubs Tractor business and even opened E’s Hair and Nail Salon so his daughters could work together. His service extended beyond his career, as he was also a two-term member of the Vidor City Council, working to better his beloved town. Whether he was on his tractor preparing his Spring garden or working on a tractor, anyone who knew him knew he loved his Farmall Cub tractors. His collection of Farmall parts eventually turned into the business DeFarmall Cubs that he and his wife Teresa ran for many years. Don lit up any room he walked in with his contagious smile and warm hugs. Don was so welcoming to anyone he met and would have given the shirt off his back or opened his home to anyone in need. Above all, Don cherished his family and always looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with them. Don never missed a family gathering (especially if banana pudding was involved). He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Teresa Eicher of Vidor, TX; his children, Terry Eicher and wife Melissa of Burleson, TX, Donna Moore and husband Ray of Nacogdoches, TX, Lauren Moore and husband Kevin of Lumberton, TX, and Amy Dale and husband Jeremy of Sour Lake, TX. He is also survived by his siblings, Dennis Eicher and wife Karen of Indianapolis, IN, Roy Eicher and wife Elizabeth of Cincinnati, OH, Janice Young and husband DJ of DeRidder, LA, and Patsy Young and husband Ezra of DeRidder, LA. Don was a proud grandfather to Dawn Jeanes and husband Chris, and Trevor Eicher and wife Jen, Katie Camacho and husband Robert, Olivia Fong and husband Joe, Dakota Ratcliff and wife Christa, Cullen Dale, Nathan Rhodes, and Sarah Dale. He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. Don is preceded in death by wife Stella Mae Eicher, his parents Jay D. Eicher and Mavis Jean Eicher and his sister Linda Spears. Don will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and commitment to his community. His wisdom, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.