A Remembrance of Don McPherson

by Tim Rochte

Don was a good-natured soul and dear friend to all who had the honor of knowing him during his 53 years of life. Don’s easy-going personality was underpinned by a strong sense of determination.  During his year-long fight against a rare form of liver cancer, (to which he succumbed in early 2004) Don never gave up hope of finding a cure and underwent a series of difficult therapies.  His strong will to live served him well as he continued working right up to within a few days before his death.  Don’s beloved hobby of kayaking in the waters off PV was a central part of his life for years and one that kept his spirits high.  At his funeral, his kayak, paddle and vest were prominently displayed in his honor.

Among Don’s many achievements at RHHS, his two Varsity Letters in wrestling were among his proudest. Don’s grappling skills were well-respected by the teams in the Sky League.  Don was known for quietly going about his business and showing both his fans and opponents that there wasn’t an ounce of quit in him. 

During the Vietnam War Era, Don proudly served his country in the Naval Reserve for 6 years, seeing active duty in the early 70’s.

An interesting side note in Don’s life took place in the mid-1960’s when he studied Kenpo Karate under Mr. Dan Inosanto, our PE coach at Malaga Cove and internationally known martial arts master .  During that period, “Mr. I.” was studying with Bruce Lee and together they developed a new form of martial arts (Jeet Kune Do).  Don worked long, hard hours to earn a black belt, made all the more prestigious by coming under Master Dan Inosanto.

Along with the other dearly departed members of our Class of 1969, Don’s life was a unique and precious gift taken away too soon, yet one we were privileged to share together while he was here.