Donald Lee Hampton

1934 - 2023

Donald Lee Hampton
November 9, 1934 - June 8, 2023
Modesto, California - The Hampton family is devastated to announce the death of their patriarch, Donald Lee Hampton, on 6/8/23. Born November 9th, 1934, in Clovis New Mexico to Arthur Boyd Hampton and Ethel Mae (Copeland) Hampton, residing in West Camp, Texas. His family migrated to California in search of ranch and farm work when Don was a young child, finally settling in Modesto. Graduating from Modesto High in 1952, Don began working in the retail butcher industry. A member of the California National Guard, Don also met and married "The girl from down the street," (On Modesto's Spencer Avenue) Nancy Taylor in 1957.
Raising a family in Modesto's Wood Colony area, Don was a member of the Woodland Avenue Fire Department, retiring as Chief, also serving as a commissioner for the district. While raising a family, Don enjoyed being the Troop-master for Boy Scout Troop 6 and following his passion for wood-working and cabinetry. Many buildings in the Wood Colony area showcase his hobby.
Don worked his entire career as a retail butcher, proud to be the friendly neighborhood butcher selling quality meat. Employers included B&T Market, Myles Market, Shop 'N Cart, Bell Mart, Daniels Market, and with his friend and neighbor Ron Venturini at Venturini-Berry Distributing.
Don is survived by his wife Nancy Hampton, brother Gerald (Reta) Hampton, and sister Charlotte Davis; Sons Steven (Annette) Hampton and Kevin Hampton; daughters Carie (Scott) Wolf and Donna (Bruce) Van Klaveren; Grandchildren Christopher Hampton, Kyle Hampton, Michael Hampton, Justin (Kylie) Hampton, Erika Wolf, T.J. Wolf, Alton Van Klaveren, Hans Van Klaveren; Great grandchild Audrey Hampton.
Despite the best efforts of Modesto's medical community Don passed away from a list of medical issues his body could no longer overcome. The family wishes to recognize the quality and compassionate care given by the healthcare teams at Memorial Hospital, Bethel Retirement Community, English Oaks Skilled Nursing, and Community Hospice.
A graveside service at Lakewood Memorial Park is scheduled for Wednesday June 14 at 10AM. The family wishes to thank anyone who wishes to honor Don's life, but requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Community Hospice.