Donald Clay Foltz

Donald was raised with two siblings. He had sister, Connie Foltz and brother, Ernesto Glover Jr. Donald was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many special life experiences over the years.

On July 30, 1978 Donald exchanged wedding vows with his sweetheart, Leila Natividad. Empathic and loyal, Donald was committed to making his new family happy.

Donald worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Donald was blessed with two children, one daughter, Michelle, and one son, Donnie. Another blessing for Donald was the gift of three grandchildren, Sierra, Brieon, and Joseph.

For a career, Donald chose to be in the Marine Corps. He protected and served his country for over twenty years. During his career, he filled many roles including infantryman, radioman, heavy truck and equipment instructor, recruiter, and Motor T mechanic. He was also a rifle and pistol expert which allowed him to compete with the Marine Corps shooting team. He went on countless deployments all over the world, including Europe and East Asia. Donald saw action for the Gulf War where he served in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. His fellow Marines viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

Donald enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were bowling, where he competed in tournaments and bowled three perfect games. He also loved fishing off of the Imperial Beach pier. But more than anything, he enjoyed spending time with his family. His favorite time of the day was spent with his grandson Joey on his lap, as he read his favorite books. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Donald enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Some of his favorite vacations included visiting the Philippines, where he took pride in riding around in his personal jeepney.

Sadly, Donald passed away on August 8, 2010 at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California due to a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Leila N. Foltz; son, Donnie; daughter, Michelle; and grandchildren, Sierra, Brieon, and Joseph. Services were held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Chula Vista, California. Donald was laid to rest in Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California.

Simply stated, Donald was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Even though it seems he has passed at a young age, he lived a full life, proud of the work he did with his own hands and dearly loved the family he left behind. Donald leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Donald Clay Foltz.