Donald McLeod, 95
Donald Rae McLeod, born March 8, 1929; veteran of the United States Air Force and dedicated man to his faith, died in Fullerton, Calif., on Jan. 28, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 95.
He was born in Sandpoint, Idaho. Born prematurely, he was expected not to survive. His grandmother, Minne Selle Raymond, took the infant to the hospital in Spokane, by train after her father, Charles Selle, flagged down the train to make an unscheduled stop.
Don proudly served the United States Air Force, from 1946 to 1966. Beginning his military career in the Army, he transitioned to the newly established Air Force in 1947. Don held roles such as flight engineer and line chief for various aircraft. He participated in historical events, including the Korean War, Vietnam, and the Berlin Airlift.
His assignments took him to challenging locations like north of the Arctic Circle during the Cold War and Greenland. Despite enduring several crash landings during his career, Don's dedication to duty never wavered. He retired from the Air Force at just 36 years old after two decades of honorable service.
After retiring from the military, Don became an aerospace engineer. He contributed his to projects with companies such as LTV, General Dynamics, Lockheed, McDonnell Douglas, and Hughes. His work included involvement in developments like space shuttles and Black Hawk helicopters.
Guided by a deep faith, Don and his second wife, Rose Mary, devoted over two decades to missionary work with the Neocatechumenal Way in Denver, Colo. Together, they shared their faith and supported others with unwavering commitment.
Don was preceded in death by his father, Frank McLeod of Blairmore, Canada (1944); mother, Ione of Sandpoint (2010); sister, Mary Marcia (2006); and his beloved wife of 39 years, Rose Mary (1985-2024). He is survived by his four children, Marcia, Ted, Bonnie, and Susie; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and his former wife, Beverly.
A funeral service will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fullerton.
