Donald Joseph Caron

Donald J. Caron, 96, passed away on April 22, 2011 after a long illness. Donald was born on October 8, 1914 in Marshall, Minnesota. His parents, Elmer and Louise Caron, passed away while he was still young, and Donald, along with his sisters, was raised by his grandmother in Marshall, Minn.

After high school, Don did odd jobs, including working for the Conservation Corps (CCC). He was very proud of having been able to find work during the Great Depression. Donald enlisted in the Army during World War II. He fought in the 3rd Army under General Patton, including landing at Normandy. He was very proud of his time in the military, and had many tales to tell. After the war, and finding the job market tough, he re-enlisted in the Army. He spent 20 years in the military and was retired as a master sergeant in the Air Force.

He met his wife, Mary, while stationed in England, and they were married in 1962. Don and Mary had three children, Paul, Therese, and Loretta. Don certainly thought of Mary as the apple of his eye!

Don and the family moved to Ventura, CA in 1966 to be closer to his twin sister. He eventually found work as a dock foreman at a large retail store in Ventura and worked there for 18 years.

Don was always an industrious man and was immensely proud to provide for his family. He enjoyed playing ball with his son, helping on school projects, family vacations, and get-togethers with relatives. He had to wait until his 90’s, but finally became a grandparent, and his grandchildren brought him much joy.

He was a devout Catholic and a regular parishioner at Our Lady of Assumption Church. Later in life, as his illness worsened, church was a place that brought him increased comfort and peace. The clergy and parishioners he knew were definitely a joy in his life.

Don was preceded in death by his twin sister, Donna. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mary, son Paul Caron (and Lori) of Ventura, daughters Therese Caron of Ventura, Loretta Berg (and Eric) of San Jose, CA, and sister Lucille Lylo of Necedah, Wis. In addition, Don leaves behind 3 grandchildren, 3 cousins, and many nieces and nephews.

A rosary recital will be held at Our Lady of Assumption Church at 10 am, Fri April 27. This will be followed by the Mass at 10:30 am and burial at Santa Clara Cemetery at 12 noon. Reception to be announced at graveside.

The family would like to thank Don’s caregivers, Visiting Angels Camarillo, for all their support, as well as Oxnard Family Circle, a veteran’s facility which Don enjoyed very much during the short time he was there. Buena Vista Hospice also provided support toward the end of Don’s illness that was greatly appreciated.

Arrangements were entrusted to Charles Carroll Funeral Home 15 Teloma Dr., Ventura, CA 93003. (805) 642-8134.