Donald “Don” Sebert passed away on July 23 at the age of 90. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on Jan. 24, 1936.
Don was a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose family was the center of his world. He and his beloved wife, Harriet, shared 68 wonderful years together. A respected business leader and the steady anchor of his family, Don was the person everyone turned to when faced with a difficult question or decision. He had a remarkable ability to bring wisdom, sound judgment and reassurance to those around him.
An entrepreneur with a pioneering spirit, Don built successful businesses in both the chemical and cellular phone industries. Long before cellular phones became a part of everyday life, Don and his sons opened Americell stores in Dallas and Kansas City, embracing a new technology and helping introduce it to their communities.
Don lived life to its fullest. He was an overachiever with a lifelong passion for action and adventure. He loved racing cars, motorcycle riding, skiing, bicycling and running, always embracing the next challenge and finding joy in staying active.
Don also had a lifelong passion for automobiles, particularly Chevrolet Corvettes and Porsches. In 1971, he acquired a 1956 Corvette, which he raced and then restored back to original factory showroom condition, a treasured family possession that remains with the family today. His love of cars was another reflection of his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for the excitement and craftsmanship they represented.
Friendly, energetic and always on the move, Don loved people and genuinely enjoyed talking with everyone he met. He seemed to make friends wherever he went, and as a result, he had friends everywhere. Whether watching a race, cheering on his beloved Chiefs, enjoying a quiet cup of tea or simply filling a room with laughter, Don had a gift for making everyone around him feel welcome and at ease.
Racing was a particular passion, and Don took great joy in sharing his love of the sport with his son Jeff and grandson Scott. Skiing was another favorite activity, one he shared with his sons beginning when they were young. These adventures created cherished memories and reflected Don’s lifelong love of being active and experiencing life alongside the people he loved most.
Don is survived by his wife, Harriet; his children, Jeff and Jerilyn Sebert and Greg and Beverly Sebert; and his grandchildren, Scott Sebert, Alex Sebert, Matthew Sebert and his husband, Zachary Marshall, and Molly Sebert. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Goldie and Harry Siegelbaum; his brothers, Marvin Sebert and Bill Stuart; and his grandson, William Sebert.
Burial took place in Dallas, Texas.
Don will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, wisdom, humor, generosity, adventurous spirit and genuine love of people will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
May his memory be a blessing.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Jewish Family Service Food Pantry of Dallas (16301 Quorum Drive, Addison, Texas 75001) or the charity of your choice.