Lyman Donnell Goldsmith

Born April 5, 1938, Don grew up in Southern California in Los Angeles and San Marino. He attended the University of Southern California in the School of Architecture and remained a lifelong and devoted Trojan fan.

Don served in the United States Army Reserves before beginning a long and meritorious career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Over more than 30 years of service, he worked at several stations, spending many years at Via Verde Station 141. Like many in the firefighting brotherhood, Don bravely battled numerous wildfires throughout his career and earned the deep respect of those who served beside him.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Goldy & Betty Goldsmith and also his beloved bride, Nilah Goldsmith. Together, Don and Nilah built a life centered around family, friendship, faith, and adventure.

Don was a devoted father, step-dad, bonus dad, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, Army veteran, retired firefighter, and an incredibly loyal friend. He is survived by his children: Jeff Goldsmith (Melanie), David Goldsmith (Petra), Vikki Dugan (Steve), and Claire Petras (Mark); two stepsons and their wives; his sister Judy Franzen; along with several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will continue to carry forward his legacy.

Don and Nilah loved opening their home to family and friends, especially for holiday gatherings filled with good food, laughter, and games. They shared a love of travel, often taking road trips with friends and family to explore beautiful places, enjoy nature, and attend jazz and wine festivals. Don was an avid photographer and fisherman, and the family spent many cherished days together in Rock Creek.

Affectionately called “Golde” by many, Don loved golf — playing it, watching it, and sharing the traditions of the game with others. He also mastered the art of barbecue and grilling and was among the first in the family to embrace the smoker, inspiring many of the “boys” to follow suit. He enjoyed good bourbon whisky— especially Maker’s Mark, two fingers over ice with a splash of water — and more than a few memorable road trips were made to Kentucky in its honor.

Don and Nilah were well known in the Canyon Lake community, where they enjoyed many years participating in local traditions including boat parades and Fiesta Days. They were members of Canyon Lake Community Church and were particularly fond of Pastor Pete. Their faith was an important part of their lives, and they believed they would one day be reunited in Heaven with their parents and loved ones.

Though often a man of few words, those who knew Don always knew exactly what he was thinking. Family and friends consistently describe him as kind, loving, patient, and fiercely loyal — a steady presence whose quiet strength will be deeply missed.

There will be no formal service.

In lieu of flowers, Don requested that donations be made to On Mission Motorsports, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established by his oldest son Jeff. The organization serves veterans and first responders through immersive off-road racing experiences designed to build camaraderie and resilience. Don and Nilah had the opportunity to witness the nonprofit’s impact firsthand at a race event a few years ago and strongly believed in its mission.

Donations may be made at:

http://OnMissionMotorsports.org/donate