Obituary of Don Calvin

Don Lee Calvin, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather died October 7, 2008, in Chico, California at the age of 85. Don was born January 2, 1923 in McFarland, California to Perry Seldon Calvin and Nellie Johnson Calvin. Don was the youngest of 5 brothers and 2 sisters. Raised in Soulsbyville, California, Don worked in the logging industry until he joined the United States Navy in 1942. Trained as a radio operator in Moscow Idaho, Don served with the Armed Guard on several Liberty ships. He was very proud of his years of service and wore his Navy Armed Guard hat with honor. On June 18, 1950, Don married Catherine (Pat) Green and together they celebrated 58 years of marriage. Don started working for The California Division of Highways in 1951. After many promotions and moves throughout California, he moved his family to Chico in 1963. Later he became Assistant Superintendent in the Chico office. Don retired in 1981 after 30 years of service. Don and Pat enjoyed many years of retirement traveling from Alaska to Mexico. Many trips along the coast of Oregon they were joined by their grandchildren. Don was an accomplished musician and artist, enjoying many years of painting and woodcarving. Don is survived by his wife, Catherine (Pat); daughters, Leronne (Phil) Wagner, Donna (Lucas) Messenger and Kathleen Bierman; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A Viewing will be held on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2008 from 5-8 p.m. at the Chapel of Brusie Funera Home. Services will be held on Friday, Oct. 10, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Glen Oaks Memorial Park