Donald Eugene Deese
Obituary

Donald “Donnie” Deese was born on March 23, 1957, in Lynwood, California, and passed away on May 6, 2026, in San Diego, California, due to heart failure.

Donnie lived a life centered around love, family, friendship, hard work, and finding joy in the everyday moments. To those who knew him best, he was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loyal friend, respected colleague, and someone whose warmth and humor left a lasting impression wherever he went.

When people would tell Donnie he needed a hobby, he would point to his wife Judy and say, “She’s my hobby.” Their love story was one of deep affection and unwavering devotion. Donnie loved Judy wholeheartedly and made sure she knew it every single day. Whether it was bringing her flowers “just because,” planning special dates, or stopping in the middle of a crowded store to kiss her, Donnie never hesitated to show the world how much he loved his wife. Together they created a home filled with laughter, music, and unconditional love.

One of Donnie’s greatest joys was working in the yard and caring for the home he shared with Judy.  He took enormous pride in every improvement and every project completed with his family. After long days spent outdoors working together, he and Judy would sit on the patio with a glass of wine, music playing nearby, admiring the life they built together. Donnie often reminded Judy, “Our home will always be a work in progress.”

Music was another great passion in his life, especially classic rock. Donnie proudly collected more than 300 vinyl albums and loved searching swap meets for hidden treasures to add to his collection. Music played daily in their home, and although he had “two left feet,” he would still dance through the house with Judy whenever the mood struck him.

Donnie was kind, considerate, and deeply loyal to his friends. He never missed an opportunity to support his musician friends at their gigs and genuinely enjoyed being there to cheer them on. Over the years, he stayed connected with many of his childhood friends, valuing those lifelong friendships and the memories they shared together. The people in his life meant everything to him, and he made sure they knew they were loved and appreciated. 

Professionally, Donnie dedicated many years to the construction industry as a construction equipment sales, service, and rentals representative. Most recently, he worked for H&E Equipment until going on medical disability in May 2025. He loved his work and took great pride in giving his customers and colleagues his absolute best every day. He was highly respected throughout the industry, known not only for his knowledge and work ethic, but also for mentoring younger generations entering the field. To many, Donnie truly was the best of the best.

Despite his many accomplishments, nothing made Donnie prouder than his family. His four sons were the center of his world, and he took great joy in the men they became.  His sons referred to their father as “Homer”.  Twenty-three years ago, after surviving his first heart attack, Donnie prayed for the chance to someday know the love of grandchildren. That prayer was answered with seven grandchildren whom he loved deeply and cherished completely.

Donnie had a wonderful sense of humor and was lovingly known as a jokester by his grandchildren. He teased often, laughed easily, and filled every room with warmth and personality. He was kind, compassionate, fiercely loyal, and deeply dedicated to the people he loved.

Donnie is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Ann; his sons, Derek Eugene, Dustin Lino, Dean Harold, and Drew Elliott; his daughter-in-law's Lindsay and Tamara, and his seven grandchildren, Dalton, Douglas, Emily, Scarlett, Derek Jr., Dominic, and Delilah.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Judy; his father, Douglas; and his sister, Diane.

Donnie was loved by everyone who knew him, and his memory will live on forever.