Donald Hall

February 14, 1942 - January 5, 2025

Donald “Don” Eugene Hall, 82, passed away peacefully on January 5th, 2025, in his home in Stockton, CA, surrounded by his loving family. Don was born on February 14, 1942, in South Sioux City, Nebraska, to parents Walter and Edna Hall. He was the second youngest of six children: Dorothy, Jack, June, Delores, Joann, and Kenneth. As a child and adolescent, Don was passionate about sports, playing baseball, football, and running track.

In 1969, Don moved from Nebraska to Stockton as part of a work transfer with Swift Meat Company. In 1973, he was hired at Deuel Vocational Institute (DVI) in Tracy, CA, as a correctional officer. In 1983, Don married his true love, Lori Maldonado, blending his teenage children Toni and Donnie with their new baby brother Andrew. Soon after Andrew was born, Don was promoted to Sergeant at DVI. He continued his love for sports by playing softball and running track for DVI, earning several gold and silver medals for his athleticism.

Don retired from DVI in 1998 at age 56 after 25 years of exceptional service, receiving letters of commendation for his meritorious actions during an institutional emergency and for excellent attendance. After retiring, Don dedicated his time to his four active boys: Andrew, Mathew, Patrick, and Alexander, taking them to and from school and to their after-school activities and sports functions. He supported Lori as she transitioned from half time to full time teaching, doing the household chores and taking pride in the home they built together. On weekends, Don and Lori took joy in watching their boys play soccer and baseball, forming lifelong friendships with other parents and their children. Don was proud of his sons' achievements and supported them in every way!

In 2013, Don and Lori welcomed their granddaughter Mia into their family, and Don embraced his new role as "Papa" with love and admiration. In later years, he continued to support Lori as she entered retirement, always encouraging her to explore her interests and passions. Don lived his life courageously and honorably, as a loving husband and dedicated family man. He will be remembered for his humble and calm character, sense of humor, charismatic storytelling, and strong principles. He was loved by everyone and will be dearly missed.

Don is survived by his loving wife Lori Hall; daughter Toni Thornton and family; sons Donald “Donnie Jr,” Andrew, Mathew, Patrick, and Alexander Hall; granddaughter Mia Hall; mother-in-law Hortencia Maldonado; sister Delores Hayes;  nieces Charmaine Benson, Teri Brown-Watts, Karen Hayes-Harris, Kimberly Hayes and Kristie Hayes; nephews Russell Bizzett, Darryl Bizzett and Jerome Watts.

SERVICE
Please join us for Don’s Celebration of Life. January 31, 2025 at 1:00PM at  Cherokee Memorial Park. The Vineyard Room. 14165 Beckman Rd. Lodi, CA 95240. Reception to follow at the Spanos Park E. Clubhouse, 3534 AG Spanos Blvd. Stockton, CA 95209.

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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hall family.