Donald Wennerholm
April 18, 1953 – October 21, 2026

Don Wennerholm, 73, passed away peacefully at home and surrounded by family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother,  Don lived a life rooted in faith, hard work, generosity and laughter.

Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, Don had an adventurous spirit from an early age. His childhood included go-carts, mini-bikes, and riding horses.  After high school, he joined the U.S. Army alongside his brother Bill. He served in Korea and Vietnam, receiving training in electronics that became the foundation of his career installing and maintaining home security systems. He later studied aquaculture at College of the Redwoods.

Don worked tirelessly to provide for his six children and taught them the value of hard work through his example. His generosity extended far beyond his own home. He helped his first wife’s parents and siblings immigrate from Korea, supported neighbors and friends, coached Little League, and participated in Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. During the pandemic, he created “Feed the Folks,” for people facing difficult times. He also sponsored children in Central America and supported efforts to bring clean water to communities abroad. His giving was quiet, without any expectation of recognition.

His Christian faith guided the way he cared for others and brought him comfort and peace at the end of his life. He leaves his children and community with a lasting lesson: a meaningful life is measured by how we care for one another.

Don is survived by his wife, Melisa; his six children, Susann, Michelle, Matthew, Katie, Lucas and Nicholas; his mother Chris, and brother Eric.

His service was held at Hydesville Church on October 24th.

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