Donnie was born in Port St. Joe, Florida, the third child of seven. He had two older sisters, Nancy and Shirley, and three younger sisters, Carol Jean, Dewanna, and Melinda. He and his brother, Jerry were right in the middle.

He named his sister Dewanna after a school friend of his at the time, and his parents said ok. His baby sister, Melinda, was born the day before his birthday, and his parents told him that she was his birthday present! This was so special to him!

His father was a Pentecostal minister, and he developed strong personal values and work ethics. His childhood was spent growing up in both Florida and California.

Donnie was a track star, winning awards and breaking records at Arcata High School (Class of 67). He had a love of cars, especially hot rods and classics. Besides his five sisters, the love and joy of Donnie’s life was his step-son, Nikolas Hobart Brown, the grandson of the local renowned artist Hobart Brown.

Donnie cared deeply for his friends and talking about their adventures would bring tears to his eyes. Donnie was always thinking of others. Everyone knew they could call on him for help, and they did.

Countless nights, he would be awakened by a friend in distress, needing a ride home or to the hospital, or a meal, and he would be there for them. Never complaining! He loved people. The world will miss Donnie.

A memorial in remembrance of his life was held on August 6th, 2016, in Eureka, California.

Dum Invicem Rursus Occurremus

# # #

The obituary above was submitted by Donnie’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.