September 4, 1952 - July 29. 2021
Donald Steven Christy passed away Thursday, July 29, 2021, with his family by his side.
Don was born September 4th, 1952 as the fourth son, to Bill and Ellen Christy in Redding CA and the family moved to Lodi, CA in 1953.Don was a vibrant child. He learned to swim and became a proficient swimmer at Robby's Olympic Club where he met some of his lifelong friends. He went to Lodi High School where he played water polo and swam. Don earned All-American Awards for swimming. He received a full ride scholarship to San Jose State to play water polo. He later finished his collegiate career at San Francisco State where he was selected MVP.
After hanging up his speedo, Don went to work in the construction field. He obtained his contractor's license and started, Don Christy Construction. Don had such an artistic skill set in construction as well as in painting pictures, in his spare time. Don made sure all family members had one of his paintings before he passed. These were always prized wedding and anniversary gifts. In addition, Don gave back to the sport of water polo and coached alongside his brother and earned the name "Mad Dog"! He was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, regardless of the task. No task was too large or too small. Many times, all it entailed was just an ear to listen. Don had an unbelievable sense humor, many claimed whenever he got on a roll, they never laughed so hard in their lives.
We are all going to miss the "Bear" "Mad Dog" "Bean" and many other "AKAs". Most of all, we are going to miss Dad, Grandpa, Father-in-Law, Brother, Brother-in-Law, Uncle, and Friend, that loved us all and would give the shirt off his back for anyone of us.
Don is proceeded in death by his parents, Bill and Ellen Christy; and his best friend, Brad Benson. Don leaves behind his daughter, Stacy Olson and her husband, John; granddaughter, Gemma; brothers and sister in laws, Pete and Debbie Christy, Jack and Diana Christy, Dave and Donna Christy and Dan and Janis Christy; nephews and nieces, Stephen Christy, Julie Luiz, Kelli Pearman, Lacey D'Anna, Sean Christy, Courtney Christy, Chris Christy, Michel Christy, Bradly Christy, Meghan Hayward and Graham Christy; as well as numerous great nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lodi High School Water Polo. Committal will be private however, a Celebration of Don's Life will be held on Saturday, August 14th at the Elk's Lodge in Woodbridge. Friends and Family are encouraged to attend and share their stories!
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Christy family.