Donald "Don" Larkin

Don was born in Corona, CA on August 19, 1940, as the second born son, to Gene and Norma Larkin. He had a great childhood playing and getting into mischief with his older brother, Gene. At an early age, Don showed an interest in sports. He played both football and baseball for Corona High. While in High School Don developed many lifelong friendships.

Then, Don moved onto Chaffey College where he met the love of his life, Billee. They were married in 1961 and three years later had their first daughter, Tracy. By now they had moved to Redlands, CA, a place they called home for almost 40 years. In 1967, they welcomed their second daughter, Darcy. Don loved his daughters. Don and Billee loved to take the girls on day trips AKA “let’s go for a ride.” Those rides exposed his family to all that California had to offer. He enjoyed taking his family to the beach, mountains, camping, and fishing.

As the years went on, Don was always there for his family. You only had to ask once, and he came to your assistance. He worked hard and earned a promotion at Kasler Corporation. This led to him and Billee buying a home with a pool near the country club. It was a dream home for his family. He spent many weekends in Corona, visiting his mom, his brother, and sister-in-law, Carol. Don loved his nieces and nephews very much. Kristen, Steven, Donny (named after him), Pamela, Angela, and Jennifer meant the world to him.

His daughters, who were animal lovers just like him, decided they wanted to join 4-H. Don did not know what he had signed up for. He now spent his weekends at livestock shows, moving to a small ranch and becoming the resident Lamb doctor. It was challenging work, but he loved the family time and always supported his girls. This chapter in Don and Billee’s life brought new friendships that extended long after the days of 4-H.

As the years went on, the girls went to college and Don and Billee bought a new home in Reche Canyon. Don took a new career opportunity with Matich Corporation. Don loved this new job. He loved traveling to the central coast on weekends to visit his girls. His daughter Tracy eventually started a family and Don became a grandpa. Hannah, Max, and Greta meant the world to Don. He was a loving grandpa. He was always there for his grandkids. Anything they needed he took care of it. His daughter, Darcy, moved back to the Central Coast. She became involved in Dog sports, which lead to a career working with dogs.

Finally, Don was ready to retire. Don and Billee bought a motorhome, and they were off on adventures they had been looking forward to. It was a fun time and the grandkids occasionally traveled with them. They had moved to Yucaipa to be close to their grandkids. Unfortunately, Billee’s health declined. Don, being the man he was, dedicated himself to caring for her. After Billee passed away in 2018, Don spent his days with his family. He adopted a rescue dog, Leah. She became his side kick and went everywhere with him. Don continued his trips to see Darcy, where they spent time exploring the beaches and hiking paths with their dogs. He spent time with Tracy, Victor, Hannah, Max, and Greta having family get togethers. Don and Leah traveled to find interesting places to go for long walks. He continued to visit his Friends from high school. He enjoyed life and remained active throughout his retirement.