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Donald Rosa Obituary
A proud graduate of Bishop Armstrong High School, Don pursued higher education at the University of California, Davis. His passion for agriculture shaped his career as an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Esparto High School, owner and operator of Livestock, Equipment, and Supply in Elk Grove, and manager of his family's farmland in Natomas.
Don's lifelong dedication to agriculture began in 4-H, where he developed a passion for raising Hereford cattle. His commitment to youth programs continued throughout his life, reflected in his service on the California State Fair Board, the California State Fair Agricultural Advisory Council, the Sacramento County Fair Board, and his membership in the California Nevada Polled Hereford Association.
An avid model train enthusiast, Don was renowned across the United States for his expertise in American Flyer trains and A.C. Gilbert collectibles. He founded the Sacramento Valley American Flyer Club and actively participated in the Golden Gate American Flyer Club, Toy Train Operating Society, Train Collectors Association, National Association of S Gaugers, and the A.C. Gilbert Society.
Don is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sue Rosa; his daughter, Erica Sanko; and his sister, Joyce Pappa. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Candido Rosa.
A rosary will be held at 5:00 PM on December 2, 2024, at St. Elizabeth of Portugal Catholic Church, 1817 12th Street, Sacramento, CA. On December 3, 2024, a viewing at 10:00 AM will be followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 AM at Calvary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 7101 Verner Ave, Citrus Heights, CA.
In honor of Don's legacy, donations may be made to The California 4-H Foundation, designated to the 4-H Livestock Judging Team, to continue supporting youth in agriculture - a cause close to his heart. (The California 4-H Foundation, 2801 Second Street, Davis, CA 95618.)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Layne & Rose
November 30, 2024
Layne & Rose Schultz
November 30, 2024
I met Don & Sue some 25+ years ago at a local toy train show. Being an American Flyer enthusiast I was happy to meet people who were so knowledgeable of A.C. Gilbert products. I soon joined the Sac Valley club, founded by Don, Jan Brewer and a few others. I was always amazed at Dons knowledge of A.F. "S"gauge. He was a true mentor to me and others when he shared his knowledge at our meetings. Due to Covid and other issues our beloved club dismantled. However, Don & Sue introduced me to the T.C.A. Club, which I joined a few years ago. My wife, Rose & I have attended a few meetings and have met many wonderful toy train enthusiasts. The last meeting in October was hosted by Don & Sue in their beautiful home. We all had a great time enjoying their collection and watching Don run his trains, as well as the delicious BBQ dinner.(see attached photos). Don will be missed by many. I´m sure he´s up in heaven helping God run his A.F. layout! Love, Layne & Rose
Paul Le Brett
November 27, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family with your loss of my dear friend Don. I am going to miss talking with him and Sue at toy train meets! We would laugh while I would purchase items from his table. At one Cal Stewart meet we had tables across from each other, and would watch each others tables when one would leave. Best wishes to all !
Rose Craighead
November 21, 2024
Don was President of the Toy Train chapter in Sacramento when Kit and I joined in January 1995. He immediately recruited us to work at the 1995 Sacramento toy train convention. Working the convention was a great way to meet members of our own chapter and folks from all over the country. Also, Kit and I had American Flyer trains when we joined TTOS and Don was wonderfully patient with us and spent time helping Kit understand about building a 2-rail layout. I miss Kit and I will miss Don too!
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Mike Hudek
November 21, 2024
I met Don through the train hobby. I live across the Country in the Philadelphia area. Don contacted me in 1991 through an ad I placed in a train magazine advertising trains for sale. We communicated by phone and a few months later met for lunch when I was on a yearly business trip to San Francisco. The next year Don invited me to stay at his house. For almost 30 years Don and I had our yearly visit. For the past 5-6 visits my wife came with me and the 4 of us spent a lot of time together. Don always thought I came to see and play with the trains but, it was really for Sue's cooking. My wife and I will miss Don, he was a generous and caring person. He loved his family and friends. Don you will be missed by all that knew you. I hope you spend eternity playing with trains.
Phil Fravesi
November 21, 2024
I first met Don 30 years ago when I joined the Sac Valley Toy Train Club. Don was always ready to share his knowledge of toy trains. Over time, we became friends and when I started my business, Don took a chance and was my first customer. Emma and I have great memories of gatherings at Don and Sue's home and the world class Flyer collection and operating layout. You are missed.
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7101 Verner Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95621
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