Donald Alfred Vasconcellos

Donald Alfred Vasconcellos went to be with our Lord and Savior on September 6, 2025 in Fresno, California. He was born on July 28, 1945 in Denair, California.

Growing up in the Central Valley, in a farming family, it was no surprise that he was introduced to farming at an early age. His passion for working and understanding the earth and its potential for productivity led him to major in Crop Science at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. After completing his Masters he spent 2 years in Northwest Africa with the Peace Corps. He then went on to teach Agriculture classes at Mission Viejo High School. He later relocated to Rocklin, California where he taught crop science and then became a Dean of Math and Science at Sierra Community College. After 14 years he moved to Ukiah, California and held the position of Vice President of Instruction at Mendocino Community College. Don's last big move was to North Fork, California where he wrapped up his many years in education at Fresno State University as a part time teacher. He completely retired last year.

Don was a true servant of God. He was humble in his journey but he led with the example of Christ's love and compassion towards anyone he came across. He was extremely active at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He was a Knight of Columbus, Eucharistic Minister, Stephen Minister and was always there to lend a helping hand to any parishioner in need. Don was also always mentoring youth in their walk with God.

His being of service went beyond the church. Don could be counted on to be there for a neighbor or stranger in need. He was quite active in his community. Recently, he helped with the planning and money raising of the new fire station in North Fork. He was also a member of the North Fork Lion's Club. Don over the years supported the program of FFA by overseeing judging contests and occasionally speaking at banquets.

Don was notorious for his gardening and landscaping skills. It was very common to find him tinkering in his greenhouse growing seedlings or finding ways to keep critters out of his garden and roses. That garden certainly blessed family and friends over the years. He also had a passion for working with wood. If he ran out of options for railroad ties, there was an old wine casket or plank of barn wood that could be turned into beautiful furniture or home décor. Don also had a gift for hospitality. You never went hungry or thirsty when visiting.

Don was a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years, Barbara. He was a son to Alfred and Isabel Vasconcellos who precede him in death and a brother to Ron, his twin, Robert and Lorraine. Don was a dad to Anthony, Carrie, Anne and Rachel and a loving and fun grandpa (Vu) to 13 grandchildren and one great grandchild. He always reminded us to not sweat the small stuff. That life was too short to get caught up in regrets and bitterness. Don had a strong, robust and loving personality. He had a sense of humor that will stay with us all and maybe rubbed off on a few of us kids. Don would want us to celebrate his life and the wonderful memories we all have of him. He will be greatly missed but we rejoice that he is in God's company preparing the way for us all to unite with Don again.

Mass and reception will be held October 14, 2025 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church at 10:00 A.M.