Donald Warren Baldwin

Donald Warren Baldwin

Apr. 4, 1929

Dec. 25, 2014

Donald Warren Baldwin, 85, died Thursday, December 25, 2014, peacefully in his home in Scottsdale, Arizona. He had been battling an incurable illness for the past three years.

He leaves his wife of 66 years, Nova Jean Baldwin, and his five children; Diana Panelli, Monty Baldwin, Berva Botts, Creed Botts (Son in law), Sherry Pringle, David Pringle (Son in Law), and Cynthia McReynolds, eight grandchildren; Erick Panelli, Sally Drescher, Brock Botts, Mario Harker, Alexandra McReynolds, Max McReynolds, Dallas Pringle, and Isabel McReynolds, four great-grandchildren; Evan Drescher, Luke Drescher, Hunter Panelli, and Lola Creed Drescher.

Born April 4, 1929 in Boise, Idaho, he grew up in the Boise Valley. He met the love of his life, Nova, in junior high school, joined the Army in 1946, and married October, 25, 1948.

Don started his first grocery store in Idaho Falls, Idaho in 1950. One shortly turned to 3, and he thought he would try an early retirement in Phoenix, Arizona. That being short lived, he acquired the Food King Grocery Stores in 1963. Before selling, he had built an empire of grocery stores, a chain of 17 warehouse markets.

He had a passion for the ponies, and after a little taste of the sport of kings, he pursued thoroughbred horse racing quite seriously in 1980. He ended with two farms in two states, and 350 head of horses. He was one of the top owners and breeders of his time.

He also loved a good gamble. That being said he started the Shy Clown Sports Casino in Reno in the early 70's. That later turned into Baldinis in the mid 80's, and it still remains a popular place amongst the locals today.

Don was an avid skier, fisher, hunter, and golfer. He loved animals, and adventure. He was a giver, not only to his friends and family, but he gave to a number of organizations, and many underprivileged children. He had touched so many lives, that we will forever be grateful for leaving us with so many wonderful memories.

A celebration of life service will be held Monday January 5, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. at the Our Lady of Snows Church, 1138 Wright Street, Reno.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Donald W. Baldwin scholarship fund for Bishop Manogue High School, 110 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, NV 89511, Attn: Development.

The family invites you to share a memory or condolence message in the Book of Memories at www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com.