1927
2012
On April 8, 2012 Easter Sunday was the day our Heavenly Father purposely chose to bring home our earthly father; Donald James Aldrich. When the veil split and daddy walked through, the heavens were celebrating. Graveside services will be 1:00p.m., Friday, April 13, 2012 in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Community Memorial Funeral Home, 1443 N. 2nd St.
He was born July 16, 1927 in Clarksburg, California to James Harold Aldrich and Helen Hazen Aldrich. Raised on a farm, he then graduated from McClatchy High School. After graduation he went to Oregon State where he played football. He then enlisted into the army and was stationed overseas in Salzburg, Austria. This magical place allowed him to meet the love of his life, Wilhelmine. On April 16 of this year they would have been married 63 years.
Upon returning to California he then went to school at the University of Berkley. Professionally he had the opportunity in life to do many things successfully. Don started as a Civil Engineer employed by the State of California. It was there he worked on a project that had a huge positive effect on the water ways in California. He then went on to become a land surveyor, real estate broker and finally built custom homes. The family settled in the town of Fair Oaks, California and raised two daughters Barbara Mace and Michele Bland. To us girls he was an amazing daddy who showered us both with love. He challenged us, encouraged us and was always there for us.
In 2009 Don and Wilhelmine moved to Texas to be closer to their girls. Last summer Don was diagnosed with pancreatic and bladder cancer. They then moved from Wesley Court on to Michele and husband Terry's ranch for the daughters to better care for him. During his final weeks he was surrounded by his family where he enjoyed watching the great grandchildren playing. He loved the ranch, watering the cattle when he felt good, taking walks with the dogs. His greatest joy was to sit next to his wife and hold her hand. Until the very end she was his love.
Good bye Daddy…until we meet again!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
April 4, 2019
Family
Claire Berry
The Aldrich Clan came to the East Coast from England 1631 (George Aldrich),but I could find only Lauren Winfield Aldrich, our Great Grandfather. I am Don's cousin Claire, age 91 and still going!
December 16, 2012
Donna Harris
I just read about your mother's passing today, and thus found out about your dad. My sympathies to both of their daughters and their grandchildren and great grandchildren. I always enjoyed chatting with Don on my daily walks past their home in Fair Oaks. He often gave my dog a treat, as he paused from pruning in his garden. I did not see your mother as often, but she was friendly as well. I thought one of you was named Donna? My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
November 2, 2012
claire berry
Hi Willie--I was sorry to read about Don's passing. But I was happy to read about him, since I had lost touch. I'm finding out that I have more relatives than I knew about. I am going to try to find your address from the funeral home so that I can write to you. Don's cousin Claire Aldrich Berry, 1216 Leisure Ln. #7, Walnut Creek CA 94595.
April 13, 2012
Wilhelmine, we were so sorry to read about Don's passing. Our sincere sympathy goes out to you and your family. We remember so fondly the years we spent with you at Weight Watchers. Again. our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bob and Dot Biamonte
April 12, 2012
Leigh Nugent
I will never forget how don was always happy, smiling and joking. He really lit up a room. He was so in love with willi he beamed when he looked at her! Don and willi were my parents best friends and we will never forget the joy don brought to my dad. Hunting was favorite topic.
April 12, 2012
Bruce Benigno
Kristin,
My family and I share the sadness resulting from the loss of your Grandfather Donald Aldrich.
As Ever,
"B" & The Benigno's
April 12, 2012
Janene Tumlinson
Fond memories are cherished Wilhelmine of our husbands building homes together in Shingles Springs. My sincere sympathies to you and your daughters.
April 12, 2012
Love to you Wilhelmine,Barbara anr Michele,Bob & Becky.
April 12, 2012
Karen Hamilton
Michele, Barbara and Mrs. Aldrich, please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time. What a great day to look forward to when you shall see him again....The Hamilton's
April 12, 2012
Dorothy Bock
It is with profound sadness that I read todays notice of Don's passing. My name is Dorothy Bock and I remember many good times with Don, Wilhelmine and family.
April 12, 2012
Glenn
I briefly knew the family in 71' and 72' through a daughter. Their family was always kind and respectful to me. They have always been a close and loving family that are a model for everyone. Goodbye Mr. Aldrich; your professional accomplishements and dedication to your family deserve tremendous recognition, respect and appreciation.
April 12, 2012
Michele and Wilhelmine,
We are so sorry to read in the newspaper about your father, husband, Don. Don and I have so many warm memories of times spent together at so many family celebrations. May your many fond memories help you in the days to come. Hugs and love to you both. Joyce and Donald House
April 12, 2012
Gary Aldrich
To Wilheimine and Family,
It is with profound sadness that I read todays notice of cousin Dons passing. My name is Gary Aldrich and my wife and I live in Sacramento. Don and my late brother Lane both attended McClatchy High at the same time. I also spent 6 months as an 11 year old on Aunt Helen's (Dons Mom) ranch in eastern Oregon. It was a very important part of my life at the time (1949) and always in my memories. Don helped Lyn and I purchase our first house here in Sacramento. I will pass the news on to my sister Joyce, now living in Arkansas with her daughter and my younger brother Bruce who lives in Oroville, CA. Our hearts go out to all the family at this time of sorrow. I know Don had a very productive life and will be missed dearly by those near him.
Gary Aldrich, Sacramento,California
April 12, 2012
We send our heartfelt love and sympathy to your family, including Willli, Barbara and Michele. I have so many fond memories of spending my childhood with my godfather Don and godmother Willi I am so, so glad that they were there in Texas with their daughters, grandchildren and great children So sad today but so glad you put the notice in the Sacramento Bee so I could read it. Love to you all, I am praying that you are all doing ok! Leigh and Steve Nugent, Jeff and Kristin
April 12, 2012
It is with great sadness we learned of Don's passing. We shared our backyard property lines with Don and Wilhelmine for 32 years. They were in all respects perfect neighbors. Our thoughts and prayers our with the family. Bob & Sharon Shute.
April 12, 2012
Michael Miller
Wilhelmine and family,
Condolences from Scott and Michael Miller. We washed your windows as college students and beyond in your Fair Oaks home. Mr. Aldrich was always working downstairs when we were there, but available with a smile and a kind word. We always enjoyed the conversations with Wilhelmine.
The Aldrich family will always have friends in Fair Oaks and Carmichael.
Take Care.
Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results
Funeral services provided by:
Community Memorial Funeral Home1443 North 2nd Street, Abilene, TX 79601
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more