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BORN
1946
DIED
2023
DONALD DOBBINS Obituary
Born and raised in the Bay Area, Red took a sudden and unexpected trip to Vietnam at the age of 17. Upon completion of service, he moonlighted as a crane owner-operator, welder, mechanic, demolitions expert, and most notably, tramp hardrock miner. Red settled in Tuolumne County in the late '70s. In the early '80s, he gave his name to his adopted son, which he often said was the best decision he ever made. In the '90s, he got clean, (another great decision) and recently celebrated 31 years!
Around the time he finally realized he wasn't particularly skilled at marriage, he earned an associate degree in psychology at Columbia College, began wearing tennis shoes for the first time in his life, became a Buddhist, got ordained, and walked on fire. He lived out the remainder of his life in service to others, giving generously of his time and resources. He was a benefactor and friend to his recovery community, hospice, animal charities, and organizations that fought for justice and equality. Red was concrete proof that people can and do change.
Red is survived by his son, and all those who were blessed with his friendship. We mourn the loss of one of the world's great storytellers. He requested that no service be held, and that no celebration be conducted until he's had time to make it through bardo. Om Mani Padme Hum
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Memories and Condolences
for DONALD DOBBINS
4 Entries
Sam and Michele Guthrie
May 3, 2023
What a great Obituary for Red. He truly did live his life in service to others and impacted a lot of men in our community. Rest easy friend.
Julie Raines Davis
April 19, 2023
Red was truly one of the greatest men I have ever met. A friend, a mentor, and once or twice a life saver. I will always fondly remember Red and miss him.
Jan Moncrieff
April 14, 2023
Red was a special friend who would stop by my office, and we'd chat. It's been years since I've seen him, but we did have a phone conversation some time ago. He'll be missed!
Jacob Foiada
April 13, 2023
I spent many hours and drank many cups of coffee chatting with Red. He was one of the highlights of my time at Columbia college and my mornings after at the coffee shop. I´ll miss ya buddy.
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