Donald J. FOLEY

FOLEY, Col. Donald J.

Peacefully ascended into Heaven on Friday September 27th. Devoted husband of Eloise, loving father of Don (Anita) and Bill (Heather), Loving brother of Dorrie, Stepfather of Claire (Rob), Dan (Virginia) and Debbie (George) trusted friend of first wife Mary Louise, Uncle of Bob, Steve, Sally and Scott, Grandfather of Jonathan, Jillian, Adam, Heather, Aaron, Daniel, Ryan, Abbe, Jeffrey, Nicole, Cara, Michael and Jonathan, Great Grandfather of Madison and Olivia, Godfather of Austin, Preceded in death by parents Ursil and Dorothy, son Francis and daughter in law Cheryl.

Born on August 11, 1931 and raised in Oakland, California, Don was an accomplished miler in high school. He joined the Army in 1951 and served his Country for 43 years in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserves and the California National Guard. His service included a tour of duty in the Korean War where he served as a point man. He relished his time as a member of the 59th Army Band. His military awards included, but were not limited to: Meritorious Service Award (2 awards), Army Commendation Ribbon (3 awards) The Korean Theatre Ribbon with 2 campaign stars, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation Medal and the National Guard Service Medal.

Don's life was defined by service to others. Along with his military service, Don at various times worked for the City of Sacramento, County of Sacramento and the State of California. He also worked in the radio industry for many years. Don served as the voice of the Camellia Bowl when the game was played in Sacramento. He believed it was important to serve the community in which he lived as well. Don was a member of CB 200, a support organization for Christian Brothers High School. He served 2 terms as President of East Sacramento Babe Ruth League, one in the 1970's and another in the 1980's and was elected to that organizations Hall of Fame in 2013.

Don loved music and was a member of the Sacramento Opera chorus for 20 years. He performed minor principle roles for the opera as well. Other acting credits included playing the role of Vladimir in a Sacramento production of Samuel Beckett's play Waiting for Godot. He also lent his unmistakable deep voice to the River City Chorale and numerous church choirs.

Don loved sports and was a big fan of the Raiders and the A's.
Don was a great listener who had a way of making you feel like you were the only person on the planet when you talked to him. Patient to a fault, he rarely lost his cool when his sons screwed up even when they probably had it coming. A man of few words, he always led by example and told his sons that three of the most important things in life are to 'suit up, shut up and show up.' He possessed a dry sense of humor and loved to tell quiet, private jokes.

Don achieved a great deal in life, but never let any of the accolades he received go to his head. He always kept things in their proper perspective, and encouraged others to do the same.

He wrote the best Christmas letters ever and led the family in heartfelt renditions of grace before meals. He really loved dogs and could often be found in front of the TV watching a game and sharing snacks with his pets. He was a true gentleman who always had a kind word for anyone he came across. He considered himself a blessed man, and he loved his family with all his heart. He adored his wife Eloise, and thanked God for her daily. Heaven's gain is our loss, but we take great comfort in knowing that he was at peace and is now in a better place.

Military Honors will be held on November 16th at Calvary Cemetery, 7101 Verner Avenue in Sacramento at 10:00a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 16th at St. Rose Catholic Church, 615 Vine Avenue in Roseville at 1p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the following organizations: St. Anthony's Catholic Church Music Ministry: 505 E. North St. Manteca, Ca. 95336, St. Paul's Methodist Church Music Ministry: 910 E. North St. Manteca, Ca. 95336