Don M. Estrada

1934 - 2022

DON M. ESTRADA

June 27, 1934 January 14, 2022

The world lost charisma when Don left us. Born as Doniciano Mariano, he was known as Marion in high school, as Don to his friends, and as Connie to his family. One of 13 children, Don was born in Bakersfield, CA to Margarito and Ponciana Estrada. His childhood generally was spent making mischief with his siblings, sneaking into the Granada Theater to watch cartoons, breaking into the canals for a swim, and getting kicked out of Catholic schools.

Don attended East Bakersfield High School where he played football, basketball, and was a champion swimmer. There, he met the love of his life, Connie Murillo, who couldnt resist his shy smile and blue-black curls. Don enlisted in the Marines after high school and served during the Korean War, traveling the world and writing to Connie every day.

After Don's discharge, he and Connie married and had 5 children. He worked tirelessly at multiple jobs to provide for them, eventually landing with the California Water Service. With his boundless energy, he bartended many weekends and could be found serving beer every night at the Budweiser Pavilion at fair time.

Even with all those jobs, Don found time to spend with his family and friends and to cook for all he loved. He was known for his deep pit, salsa, tamales, and enchiladas. He often was asked to prepare the food for family celebrations. He was quick with a smile and a joke, always willing to lend a helping hand, and had charisma in spades.

Don was good at many things, but he was best at being a grandpa. Don and Connie had 11 grandkids and 23 great grandkids. They always kept their wallets full and cookie jars fuller for cherished visits from the grandkids. Even neighborhood kids called Don Grandpa and often rang his doorbell for candy or help fixing their bikes.

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife Connie, his son Ruben, and his siblings Olga, Viola, Gloria, Aurelia, Ida, Rosalinda, Ruben, Rico, Hector, Salvador, and Eddie.

He is survived by his sister, Linda Torres (Manuel) and nephew, Leonard Villanueva; his sister-in-law, Beatriz Lopez; his children, Donnie (Lydia), Steve, Cynthia, and Christine; the grandchildren he raised, Elizabeth (Brett), Ruben, and Alyssa; his grandchildren, Anthony (Venessa), Michael, Amanda, Venessa (Rodrigo), Adam, Christal, Natasha (Joseph), and Drew; his 23 great grandchildren; and dozens of nieces and nephews.

Viewing and rosary will be held February 17, 2022 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and graveside services on February 18, 2022 at 10:00 am, both at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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