Donald Jean Salmon

Donald Jean Salmon 1930-2025

Donald Jean Salmon was born in McLean, Texas on November 11, 1930, and passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, in Bakersfield, California.

He was raised in Porterville, CA and attended Porterville High School, he then joined the Air Force in 1948, serving honorably in the Korean War. In 1952, Don began working for Pacific Telephone. He married Evelyn Thompson on September 5, 1953, and together they settled in Bakersfield, CA, where they raised their two children. The family relocated to Northern California in 1970 and later returned to Bakersfield in 1990.

Don and Evelyn shared many joyful years camping and fishing with family and friends. After retiring in 1984, Don pursued his love of golf and became an avid player. Don and Evelyn also enjoyed playing card games and watching Anaheim Angels games together. Don was also a longtime member of the Footprinters Association. Following Evelyn's passing in 2016, Don lived at Brookdale Independent Living, where he enjoyed Bingo, workout classes, and happy hours in the company of many good friends.

Don is survived by his son, Phillip Salmon; his daughter, Debra Trussell (John); his grandchildren, Mishele Gibson, Julie Kahn (Paul), and Brandon Trussell; and by his three great-grandchildren, Finley and Parker Kahn and Harper Trussell. Don was so proud to be a grandpa and great-grandpa and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Newell "Sally" Salmon; his sister, Lucille Inman; and his brothers, Raymond Salmon, Odell Salmon, and Roy Salmon.

He will be lovingly remembered for his sense of humor, his kindness and his witty remarks.

A Graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Porterville, California on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 11:00. Myers Funeral Service & Crematory in Porterville is in charge of arrangements.