After a very long fight, Donnie peacefully passed away of brain cancer at home on Friday, April 23, 2021 at 7:09 pm, with his family by his side and in his heart. This comes just two months after his 60th birthday diagnosed one month after he retired.
Donnie was loved dearly by so many people including Brenda his wife of 38.5 years, his Mother, Laura; Sisters, Laureen, Juleen and Christeen; Nephews, Randy and Dana; Nieces; Jennifer and Christin and their families.
Donnie was born in Lynwood, California on February 13, 1961 to Donald and Laura Wise. Donnie graduated from Western High School, Anaheim, CA, in 1980, where he played football and basketball. He lived in the same house in Anaheim, California until he was married to Brenda. In 1982.
Donnie was born calm and carried that demeanor throughout his life. He was very caring and quite a mellow guy. Donnie rarely got upset. He had a HUGE heart and would do absolutely anything to help people. Whenever someone needed help, they knew they could always count on him to be there. He gave the BEST and biggest hugs ever!
Some of his favorite things were cars, trucks, planes, sports, mountain biking, NHRA Drag Racing, Top Fuel Hydro boats, Indy cars, football, UCLA, In-n-Out Burger, Disneyland, IPA (especially Tower Station and Devils Ale), and enjoyed hanging out with his family and friends.
Donnie’s work began with Knott’s Berry Farm, he then moved to Nutrilite Products, worked in manufacturing at Newport Corporation, and then a big move from California to Arizona where he worked in the warehouse for Crafco. Prior to retiring, he spent the past 32 years at Garrett/Allied-Signal/Honeywell Aerospace as an Assembly Technician. Here he built mechanical products supporting commercial and military aircraft and helicopters. He was one of those guys who came to work, focused on getting the job done, and was someone you could always count on.
Donnie received the diagnosis of Glioblastoma only two weeks after leaving his 32-year career at Honeywell. With such a strong body and being in such great shape, Donnie fought the disease with all he could and then some. After courageously fighting for 9 months, he made the decision to be comfortable, go on his terms, and spent his last days with family and friends.
The life of a truly amazing man, who was taken MUCH too soon, and will be missed by so many friends, family and acquaintances.
Donnie, we love you always, will miss you greatly, and will carry you in our hearts forever!
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