Donald Zarate

Today we celebrate the life of Donald Zarate. He was born on August 28, 1964, at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, to Laura Lee Zarate and Robert Zarate. The family moved to Colorado Springs in 1969, where Donald graduated from Mitchell High School in 1982. That same year, he joined the Air Force and served for 8 years at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. Donald moved back to Colorado Springs in 1990. He was the manager at Quality Auto Performance Center for 25 plus years. He then fulfilled his dream job as a ramp supervisor at Southwest Airlines for the past 2 years.
Donald is survived by his children Ashleigh (April), Danielle, Alexis, Donell, Angelique; 5 grandchildren: Mariah, Ozius, Carson, Cosima, Dominic; his lifelong partner Fabienne Valérie Hofmann; Mother Laura, Mother-in-law Marie-Jo; sisters Krystina, Edwinna, Lisa; brothers-in-law Yann, Sten. Donald was preceded in death by his father Robert and son Jacob.
Ever since his young childhood, Donnie's trademarks were his infectious smile, sense of humor, mischievous banter, and love for the LA Lakers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. So much so that anybody may have believed he had part-ownership of HIS sports teams. To say that Donnie was distinctive does not do him justice. He was truly unique, and we miss him!
Donnie was a man of celebration. His greatest pleasure was to find any excuse to bring family and friends together on any occasion, such as holidays, birthdays, beginning and end of summer parties and have a good time. He proudly played the role of event planner and that of the one and only DJ! His culinary dishes were always the hit at any of these events. These gatherings brought us all such happiness, joy, camaraderie, and oneness. If you have ever experienced a Zarate Party, "SHOT TIME!!!"
Over the years, the continuous outpour of love from the lives he has touched has been unparalleled. Through his friendships with all and everyone, his family has built and cherished relationships that will last a lifetime. So, today, we want to extend to all of you our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation.