Donald De Wald

Obituary of Donald G De Wald

Donald G. De Wald know by his family as the “The Donald”, “Squirrel” by co-workers at the Southern Pacific Railroad and simply “Donnie” by his wife Julie caught the last train out and is waving to all of us from that caboose in the sky! Though he leaves us physically we will forever be riding the rails of life where his memory will never derail. Riding those rails is his son David (Joe Carter), his daughter Jamie (Brian White) and granddaughter Olivia White! A native of Santa Cruz County Don lived and breathed the Rail Road. Following the footsteps of his Dad, Mom and brother he went to work for Southern Pacific Railroads when he was just 18 years old, where he eventually retired after 51 years. You may not have ever met “Squirrel” but you or your dogs may have heard him. Don conducted the Santa Cruz local train that went through the heart of Santa Cruz County weekly. He regularly blew the whistle as it passed through Capitola where he would stop the train for Julie, their 3 dogs and any locals (4-legged or 2) who would show up for the free doggie treats he would toss from the train. So the next time you see the giant Iron Horse pass by give a wave for “Squirrel” … We love you!

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A Memorial Tree was planted for Donald
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel