With his sister Sue at his bedside, Don Regalia passed away on March 30, 2024 in Santa Rosa, after a long, valiant fight with colorectal cancer.

Don was born on April 2, 1958 in San Francisco, California. He attended Epiphany Grammar School, Riordan High School (Class of 76), and then San Jose State University where he received his BS degree in Meteorology (Class of 82). Lockheed Martin hired him as an Aerospace Engineer in 1984 where he worked for 37 years and received many awards throughout his lengthy career.

Don was 65 years old at the time of his passing and was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Albert and Helen Regalia. He is survived by his loving brother, Bob Regalia (Sara), devoted sister Sue Knoll (Art), former sister-in-law Bonnie Regalia, adoring nieces Stacey Koutlas (Gabe), Ashley Pitcher (Steve), and Melissa Baker (Jason) and their children, godson Patrick Resler, and many loyal and caring friends. Regular visits from Don’s angel nieces had a positive impact on his final months and brightened his dreary days.

An avid San Jose Sharks fan, Don held season tickets for many years. Music was also paramount in Don’s life and he attended numerous concerts throughout his lifetime, including the Monterey Jazz Festival for 30 consecutive years.

Don will forever be remembered for his sense of humor, warmth, kindness, and love for his family and friends. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all those lives he touched.

Sincere thanks to Don’s lifelong loyal friend Marta for her unwavering love, support and medical guidance throughout his illness. In addition, deep gratitude to Don’s good friend Bill for his selfless assistance.

The family is especially appreciative of the specialists from Sutter Care at Home (Hospice) in Santa Rosa for the exceptional medical, social, and emotional support provided to Don. In addition, his family will be eternally grateful to the caregivers at Lovejoy’s Greenhouse for their compassionate care and loving kindness shown to Don during his residency there.

A Celebration of Don’s Life will be scheduled for a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Don’s memory to Sutter Care at Home, 110 Stony Point Road, Suite 200A, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, or to a charity of your choice.

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