Donald E. Brogan

1925 - 2016

April 1, 1925 - July 23, 2016 Donald E. Brogan died peacefully at home on July 23, 2016 at the age of 91. Donald is survived by his wife of 68 years Consuelo Bergere Mendenhall Brogan of Santa Fe, New Mexico, his two children, Kevin Brogan and Cathryn DeYoung and five grandchildren. Kevin is married to Nena Brogan and they raised their children, Chase, JT, Larkin and Abbey Brogan in San Marino. Don was predeceased by their daughter Larkin. Don's daughter Cathryn is married to Douglas Ayres DeYoung and they have two children, Scott and Katie. They raised their children in Laguna Niguel and currently reside in Dana Point. Don was born in Nebraska and spent his early years in Los Angeles. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1943 and attended Pasadena City College before joining the Army Air Forces in 1943. After extensive flight training, Don became a pilot, First Lieutenant, and served in combat during World War II. He received the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He also was the recipient of a Purple Heart after being wounded on a bombing mission. He flew a variety of planes including the B-17, B-26, B-24, C-54, C-47, C-53, Pt-13, BT-13, AT-17 & AT-6. Shortly after the War ended, Don began college at the University of Southern California where he graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Business and Commerce. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Don met his wife Connee while they were both students at USC. They were married after graduating from USC and lived for many years in San Marino. Don began his career in sales with Sterling Drug Corporation where he worked for 43 years finishing his career as the Director of Sales. After retiring from Sterling Drug, Don and Connee moved to Dana Point where they enjoyed their retirement years. Don loved to fly fish, hunt and golf. Most of all he loved being with people, especially his family. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren and followed their careers with enthusiasm. Don loved helping people and would often be called upon if a friend or relative was in need. He had a kind heart and fun personality. He loved USC football and tried to never miss a home football game. Throughout Don's career at Sterling Drug, he continued to serve in the United States Air Force as a Reserve Officer until he retired as a Major in 1985 after 42 years of service in the military. He will be buried at Santa Fe National Cemetery with full military honors. A family service for Don will be held at McCormick Mortuary in Laguna Hills. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Discovery Eye Institute at the UCI Gavin Hebert Eye Institute for research on macular degeneration.