was born in Glendale, California, to Harveyand GenevaSmith.
During the years 1951 and 1952 he served in the U.S.Army in Berlin, repairing radios on Army
jeeps. For the next 27 years he worked asa technician for BeckmanIndustries in Southern
California, designing and testing medical equipment. There he met JeanBonnett, married her
in 1962, and adopted her three-year-old daughter Debra. Don and Jeanretired and moved to
Oakhurst in 1987. When Jeanpassedaway in 1993,Don continued gardening and working in
the shop he had built, making bird houses,clocks,and other creative items. An excellent
craftsman, he worked on some ofthe holiday decorations in Oakhurst, and became known as a
neighborhood handy man.
Late in 1999, he met ElainePaisley,who would become his partner for the next 18 years. They
ushered in the Millennium hiking, camping, and traveling.
Don's family and friends appreciated his thoughtful, quiet nature, his methodical approach to
projects, and his caring listening. Hewas happiest when he was making others happy.
He is survived by his sister VedaThompson in Boerne,Texas,a niece and nephew, his daughter
Debra Nicacio and her husband Ruben,two grandsonsand their wives, one great-grandson,
another on the way, several cousins,his partner ElainePaisleyand her son Dan Moody.
The family wishes to thank Jasmineand Drona Ingwaba,from the former Country RoseAssisted
Living in Coarsegold;staff of the Oakhurst Health and Wellness Centre; and Optimal Hospicefor
their loving care.
i'
A small family gathering will be held at a later date.
Don loved animals, domestic and wild, even the deer who nibbled his garden. Remembrances
may be made to EMCSPCA(EasternMadera County animal shelter), POBox 1314, Oakhurst, CA
93644, or www.emcspca.org.
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