Donald L. Dyar

1947 - 2011

After a lifetime of art-filled and creative endeavors, Donald L. Dyar passed away peacefully at his home in Palm Springs, Calif. on Thursday morning, March 3, 2011. He was just 63 years old. Don was known and respected for his talent as an artist. His works included his watercolors, sculpture, as well as his keen creative eye for interior design. He took great pride in his beautiful home and gardens. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska on April 21, 1947. Don grew up in the state of Iowa where he attended school. Don was a graduate of Roosevelt High School, Des Moines, Iowa. He then pursued a degree in art and graduated from the Denver School of Art, Denver, Colorado. After learning the floral business while working at Bosen's Flowers in Des Moines, he subsequently opened his own successful floral business -- Carriage Flowers and Gifts of Des Moines in two locations. His love of travel and zest for life took him west to Los Angeles, where he found abundant opportunities and enjoyed the expansiveness of the California culture and lifestyle. For many years, Don worked in the Los Angeles area as a creative designer in the retail floral market. After his home was nearly destroyed in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, Don sought a simpler and slower lifestyle in the Palm Springs area. Don found Palm Springs to be "just-the-place" where he could concentrate on his art projects, participate in community-based activities and build upon his creative talents. After meeting his late life partner Sidney (Skip) Wilson, the two collaborated in opening the popular restaurant, Skip's Cabana Club in Rancho Mirage, Calif. Known for its friendly and welcoming ambiance, Skip's Cabana Club became a popular hotspot for an enthusiastic and loyal clientele. After his retirement. Don continued to work on many art projects, most notably, the complete renovation and redesign of his 1970's era residence. This project showcased Don's numerable talents for interior design which made a wonderful backdrop for his lifelong collection of art and treasures. He is survived by family members including brother William (Donna) Dyar of Derby, Kansas; nephew Kenneth Dyar of Thiene, Italy; nieces, Traci Shipley (Carl) of Elmo, Missouri; Kassi O'Brien (Brett) Terneuzen, Netherlands; and Ashley Steve-Dyar of Derby, Kansas; great nephew Malcom Dyar of Thiene, Italy and great niece Alexis Porter, Elmo, Mo. He is also survived by close friends -- David Garcia, Kevin McBride and Buzz Steussy all of Palm Springs, Calif. He was preceded in death by his life partner Sidney (Skip) Wilson, his parents Kenneth and Helen Barker Dyar, and his nephew Dustin Dyar. Donations in his memory may be made to the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Palm Springs Art Museum, The Desert AIDS Project or The AIDS Assistance Program in Palm Springs Calif. A celebration of Don's life will be held at his home on Saturday, March 19, 2011. Information regarding please call: 760-534-9608 or 760-641-7102.