Donald Kenneth Draehn

Donald Draehn, 80, of Brenham, Texas, passed away on August 28, 2025, on the land he loved - his family's generational farm.

Donald was born and raised in Brenham, where he grew up picking cotton and learning the value of hard work early on. He went on to become a pharmacist, a pediatrician, and a man deeply devoted to serving his hometown. He was the first pediatrician from Brenham to return and care for the next generation in the very place that raised him.

Over the years, Donald wore many hats - doctor, mentor, board member, community leader, and proud family man. He served on the Brenham School Board for 25 years and on the board of the Unity Theatre. In 2018, he was named Brenham's "Man of the Year" - but if you asked him, he would've downplayed the honor.

To many, he was "Dr. Draehn." But to those who knew him best, he was so much more - a man of deep intelligence, compassion, and a quick, mischievous wit. He had a charisma that filled every room and a heart that left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He mentored many, healed countless, and never stopped showing up for the people around him.

He was a proud graduate of Brenham High School and Blinn College. He earned his pharmacy degree from the University of Houston, attended medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, and completed his residency at Wake Forest University in North Carolina.

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Carol Draehn; his children Rhett Draehn and Ashley Gumbert; and his grandsons Spencer, Oliver, and Ethan Gumbert. He is also survived by his stepchildren Clayton Chaney and Lauren Peyton; his brother Norman and sister-in-law Doris Draehn; and a wide circle of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jeannie Martin Draehn; his parents, Robert and Florence Bormann Draehn; and other beloved family members.

Throughout his life, Donald worked tirelessly to improve education, healthcare, and the well-being of others. He believed in caring for the whole person and his legacy is one of service, kindness, and action.

In memory of Donald's lifelong commitment to medicine, education, and the arts, memorial contributions may be made to Unity Theatre or the Brenham ISD Education Foundation - organizations that reflect the values he championed and the community he loved so deeply.

Despite all he accomplished, Donald never sought recognition. At his core, he simply wanted to be remembered as a good guy - someone who gave generously of his time, his talents, and his heart. And that's exactly who he was. He will be missed more than words can say.

Rest easy, Donald. You did good.

The public is invited to honor Dr. Donald K. Draehn's life on Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm at Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, Texas.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 West Main Street Brenham, Texas. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com.