Donald Reginald Swatman

DONALD REGINALD SWATMAN. January 18, 1934 - November 24, 2025

Always quick with a joke and a smile, Don was a respected leader in his community and a loving family man who will be greatly missed. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and willingness to step up and give of his time and talents.

Born in Brantford, Ontario, Canada, Don spent his youth exploring the woods around his home - fishing, camping, building rafts, and playing pranks on his friends. He was a devoted big brother, always looking after his younger sister, Marge, and letting her tag along during his adventures. Following his freshman year in high school, Don's family moved to San Francisco where he graduated from high school and he then attended UC Berkeley where he received a B.S. in Public Health. UCSF dental school followed during which time he served as Student Body President, started the school newspaper, met his lovely wife, Mary, and received his DDS degree.

After graduating from dental school, Don served for three years as an officer in the US Public Health Service taking care of military personnel in Baltimore Maryland, Savannah Georgia, and San Pedro California. In 1959, while in Baltimore, Don and Mary welcomed twin girls Lisa and Kimberly, and three years later, after moving to Modesto to be closer to family, their son Matthew was born.

Don began his private dental practice in a small building in McHenry Village in 1963 and it wasn't long before he envisioned building Downey Park Professional Center - an award winning new complex of 18 professional offices surrounded by beautiful gardens. Don was instrumental in not only developing the project, but continued to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors for his entire career. He was also active in the Stanislaus Dental Society, Modesto Rotary and dedicated time to the Salvation Army.

His creative mind always working overtime, Don designed and developed a line of dental equipment with his brother in-law Carl Beckwith, and they went on to start Caleda, an innovative dental manufacturing company. During the same busy time in his life Don formed a partnership of investors who developed lemon and grapefruit ranches in the Coachella Valley.

In his spare time Don loved being outdoors - hiking in Yosemite, relaxing on his houseboat and water skiing with family, and most of all tending to his beautiful garden. He and Mary enjoyed many years in Maui and Barbados on the beach and tennis courts. Oh, and no surprise, Don was also president of the Kihei Akahi Homeowners Association for many years.

His greatest joy despite all his accomplishments was his family. He was a dedicated father to Lisa, Kim (Tom) and Matthew (Angie), and loving husband to his wife Mary to whom he was married for 68 amazing years! He is also survived by his three grandchildren Matthew, Ellen and Keller, sister Marge Beckwith (Carl), brother in-law John Field (Chris) and numerous nieces and nephews. We all miss him greatly!

A Celebration of Life will be held January 30, 2026 at 11:00 am at Centenary Church, 1911 Toyon Avenue, Modesto. Lunch immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers please consider a gift to the Salvation Army or charity of your choice.