Donnie James Auer

Donnie James Auer, of Conway, AR, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025. He was born on February 2, 1960, in Jasper, AL to the late James Otto Auer, Sr., and Bertha Auer.

Donnie passed from this life surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of service, adventure, and a heart always ready to help others. He was married for 20 years to the love of his life, a partnership marked by laughter, loyalty, and countless memories he created by gently pulling her out of her comfort zone and taking her on new adventures.

A born tinkerer with an engineering mind, Donnie could fix just about anything. He had a special talent for working with his hands and an even greater gift for using that talent to help his neighbors, friends, and anyone who needed a hand. Whether he was repairing something, building something, or coming up with a clever solution no one else had thought of, Donnie was happiest when he was being useful.

Donnie proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 16 years, including service during Desert Storm. His dedication to his fellow airmen and to the nation he loved was a defining part of his life, and he carried that spirit of duty, integrity, and courage with him long after his military career.

He loved riding his motorcycle, going camping, boating on the water, and embracing the thrill of the unknown. Adventurous at heart, Donnie found joy in the open road, in the quiet of the woods, on a boat in the sunshine, and in discovering new places — always with his wife by his side, creating stories they would cherish forever.

Donnie will be remembered for his kindness, his curiosity, his willingness to serve, and the way he could make any place feel like home with just his presence.

Donnie is preceded by his father; his mother and stepfather, Charles and Judy Catha; and his brother, James Otto Auer, Jr.

Donnie is survived by his wife, Diane; his son, Karl Auer; brothers, Robert (Debbie) Auer and Steve (Vickie) Auer; and his nieces and nephews, Kimberly Sawyer, Kyle Auer, and Kevin Auer.