Donald Paquin, devoted father and granddad, passed away in the arms of his daughter in Salinas, CA after a long and heroic battle with cancer. Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, “Chickie”, of 49 years in 2005. Don leaves behind his devoted daughter Debbie Thul; son-in-law Greg Thul; grandchildren, Donny Thul and Kari Thul; and nephew Patrick Hill. Don was born in Superior, WI , and he lived a very colorful life. Don joined the Merchant Marines in September of 1943 at the age of 16. When they found out how old he was, they gave him an honorable discharge. He loved baseball and was given a full ride scholarship to Penn State to play baseball but he gave it up to play AAA ball for the Kansas City Blues and then the New York Yankees. He played baseball with such greats as Yogi Berra, Whitey Ford and Mickey Mantle. In 1962, he was the Bay Area Correspondent and Vice Chairman for Governor Pat Brown. Don was a pilot and received his pilot’s license in 1966. He loved flying his single engine plane, especially to Lake Tahoe. Don was a self-made man and he owned his own First Aid Company for 35 years. He sold the company and retired at the age of 70, then stayed employed as a consultant for 5 more years. Don raced dirt bikes and he loved fishing and camping. He loved everything about nature. He loved to cook and also eat good food. Donald moved to Hollister to be with his daughter and family in 2005 after the death of his cherished wife. He was deeply devoted to his family. Don loved spending time with his grandchildren. Hel was very proud of them. Don loved Tres Pinos School, the staff and children. He spent what time he could in the staff lunchroom entertaining everyone with his stories and humor. His son-in-law Greg took very good care of him during the day while his daughter worked. Donald was adored by his daughter Debbie and grandchildren, Donny and Kari. He will be deeply missed.
As per his request, services will be private.
