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Donald Wilson Obituary
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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald "Don" Lee Wilson, who peacefully passed away on February 26, 2025, at Sutter General Medical Center in Sacramento, surrounded by two of his beloved children. He was 70 years old.
Born on August 11, 1954, in Huntington, West Virginia, Don was the son of John and Ann Wilson. The Wilson family moved from West Virginia to Rockford, Illinois, and eventually settled in Sacramento, California in 1957. Don attended Grant Union High School and remained in North Sacramento for the entirety of his life.
Don's greatest passion was music. A self-taught drummer for over 50 years, he played in several bands, including The Country Cowboys, The Miller Highlights, and the Gunshy Band. His bandmates were not only fellow musicians but also close friends who cherished the laughter, jokes, and memories they shared during countless performances.
As a teenager, Don developed a love for cars, particularly his 1962 Chevy Malibu, and enjoyed taking his Jeep Willy on the legendary Rubicon Trail. He also had a deep appreciation for hunting and fishing, hobbies he shared with his father, John, and brother, John Jr., before their passing. Later in life, he became especially interested in International Scouts, earning the nickname "Don Scout Man."
Don leaves behind his mother, Ann Wilson; his children, Kevin (Abegail), Crystal, and Justin; and his cherished grandchildren, twins River and Rayleena Wilson. He was preceded in death by his father, John Wilson; his brother, John Wilson Jr.; and his nephew, Paul Wilson.
A celebration of Don's life will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at North Sacramento Funeral Home, located at 725 El Camino Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95815. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Placerville Union Cemetery, located at 650 Bee Street, Placerville, CA 95667, at 1:00 PM.
Don's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him-through his music, his kindness and humor. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who shared his journey.
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2 Entries
Richard Elliott
March 2, 2025
I remember Don loved playing all the rodeo gigs in Northern California and beyond. I still have the belt buckle he made and so graciously gave me when I was in the Southern Empire Band in Sacramento, your kindness will remembered by many. RIP cowboy and happy trails.
Richard Elliott
March 2, 2025.
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Jessie Haun, Judy Von Glockner, Gary Haun
March 1, 2025
Nephew/Cousin Donnie visited our little family with his Mom and Dad and his younger brother Johnnie in the 60´s. We were so excited because they came from an exotic land - California!
He was a gifted musician and always had tales to tell. May he rest in peace. Our sincere condolences to his family and all who knew him.
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725 El Camino Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95815
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