Gary Donaldson

Gary Donaldson obituary, Sacramento, CA

Gary Donaldson

Gary Donaldson Obituary

Visit the Legacy Remembers website to view the full obituary.
Gary Donaldson, 82, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at his home in Sacramento, surrounded by the love of his family. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Hugh and Mary Donaldson, and his beloved brother, Clinton. Born on December 21, 1942, Gary shared a life filled with love and partnership with his cherished wife, Joyce. Together, they celebrated 50 years of companionship, including 20 wonderful years of marriage. He is survived by his son, Joey Donaldson (Susan); his daughter, Jill Farrell (Bill); his stepson, Lee Overstreet (Linda); and his stepdaughter, Jolie Costello (Vince). He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched with his warmth and kindness. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Gary's heart belonged to the San Francisco 49ers. A proud and loyal "49er Faithful," he held season tickets dating back to their days at Kezar Stadium. He was also a devoted Dodgers fan, with his love for the team spanning back to their Brooklyn days. Gary's passion for sports was only rivaled by his devotion to his family, with whom he shared countless game days and precious moments. Known affectionately by those close to him as "Duffer" and "The Sly Mongoose," Gary will be remembered for his sharp wit, his unforgettable "Garyisms," the signature twinkle in his eye, and the endless love he gave to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Gary left an indelible mark on the lives of all the lives he touched and he will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Please join us on

Friday January 17, 2025

Viewing 12 -130

Service 130-230

East Lawn Elk Grove Memorial Park.

9189 East Stockton Blvd Elk Grove

Celebration of Life following Service.

Feel free to wear your 49 ers or Dodgers Jersey and come share your favorite moments and memories.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Gary Donaldson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 18, 2025

Carol Reavis posted to the memorial.

January 18, 2025

Joey and Susan Donaldson posted to the memorial.

January 14, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.

2 Entries

Carol Reavis

January 18, 2025

Gary gave Iris flower bulbs to me and I loved the memories it brought to me each time they bloomed. He was a wonderful friend and an amazing husband to my best friend Joyce.
Love Carol Reavis

Joey and Susan Donaldson

January 18, 2025

Thank you to everyone that attended the funeral service and celebration of Life for Gary. So many memories and moments shared and so much love.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

East Lawn Elk Grove Mortuary

9189 East Stockton Boulevard, Elk Grove, CA 95624

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Sign Gary Donaldson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 18, 2025

Carol Reavis posted to the memorial.

January 18, 2025

Joey and Susan Donaldson posted to the memorial.

January 14, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.