Donald Griffith

Donald Paul Griffith After a valiant struggle through a brief illness, Donald Paul Griffith died on November 18, 2010, with his family by his side. He was 81 years old. Don was born in Oakland, California, on July 1, 1929, to Lauren Griffith and Luella Lusher Griffith, who have predeceased him. He grew up in Oakland and attended primary and secondary schools in nearby Piedmont. Subsequent to his graduation from Piedmont High School in 1947, Don attended both St. Mary's College and San Francisco State University, having graduated from the latter in 1951. About that time, he met the love of his life, Marjorie "Carol" Thompson, and after a year-long courtship, the couple married on October 18, 1952, and settled in Piedmont in 1953. Their first-born daughter, Laurel, arrived nine months later with five more daughters, Donna, Sharon, Julie, and twins, Sylvia and Susan, following. Don Griffith's dry wit and sense of humor will be sorely missed by his dear friends and family. In addition to his many close friends, Don leaves his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Carol, and best friend, Bingo, his Boston Terrier. Don is also survived by his brother-in-law, Roger Thompson; his daughters, Laurel Griffith, Donna Guinn, Sharon Barley (Mark), Julie Griffith, Sylvia Whiffen (Tom), Susan Gomes (Ron); his nine grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and two nephews. As per Don's request, a private family memorial was given and held on November 21, 2010. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa, or Don's favorite charities, ARF or the SPCA, would be greatly appreciated.