Donal Ray Helton was born on July 1, 1932, in Zybach, Texas. He was the second born of Columbus and Alice Helton. In 1936 his parents settled in Chowchilla, California. In 1950 Donal met Weba Joyce McAbee. Soon after, they married on September 18, 1951. Donal was drafted into the military on December 2, 1952, serving in the Korean conflict. He was a medic who became a Sergeant. While on the battlefields in Korea, his faith increased. He was honorably released from active duty on October 2, 1954.

After release they moved to Merced, California where they raised their sons, Phillip Dale, Donal Lynn and Dennis Ray. Donal faithfully took his family to church. Donal loved to sing for the Lord. He had an impeccable memory and knew the lyrics to many, many songs up until the day of his death. He faithfully sang on many Sundays at the local Gospel Defender church for over 60 years. He was a blessing to all ages.

For 15 years, Donal worked as foreman for J. F. Pritchard building cooling towers. In 1969, Donal, along with his brother-in-law, Bill McDowell began a business as general building contractors. They built many residential homes throughout Merced County for over 50 years. Donal loved farming. He raised and sold cattle as a side business up until his death.

Donal is preceded in death by his father, Columbus, his mother, Alice, his siblings, Jack, Woffard Ed, Sharon, and two grandchildren, Sarah Elisabeth Helton and Brian Dale Helton.

Donal is survived by his wife of 71 years, three sons, two daughters-in-law, fifteen grandchildren, and twenty-one great grandchildren that he loved dearly. 

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