Upon finishing his military career, Don returned to the bay area, where he became involved with the booming business of radio and television broadcasting. After working for various companies in the radio trade. Don started work at television station channel 5, KPIX. This became his main employer for the next 20 plus years. Over the next several years, co-workers became his best friends.
With the expanding field of television reaching further each year, the need for increased transmission range was foreseen and Sutro Tower was the answer. After years of planing, researching and obtaining permits, Sutro Tower was built, serving several radio and television channels in the bay area. Don, began working at the Sutro Tower company in 1981, and stayed there as Director of Engineering until his retirement in 1992.
Don was an active member in several professional organizations, including SMPTE, BABES, SBE and Broadcast Legends.
Don's wife of over 30 years, Marilyn, died early, and Don remarried a long time friend, Mary Liz. Together, they enjoyed his retirement years by traveling extensively. They recently just returned from a cruise through the Panama Canal, and trips to Europe, Canada and the birthplace of baseball, Cooperstown, New York. Don also enjoyed rooting for the local home team, the SF Giants with Mary Liz. This was especially true when the new ballpark was built at the bottom of the San Francisco - Oakland Bay Bridge.
Don died suddenly, but happily in his own bed, in the city by the bay, the city he loved all his life, San Francisco.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Liz, son Mark, daughter-in-law Stephanie, and grandchildren Brian and Jessica. He was predeceased by his daughter Penelope.
Memorial service is scheduled for December 15, 10:30 am, at Saint Brendan's church, San Francisco.