Obituary of Donald Ray Denison

Donald Ray Denison, age 81, went to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 30, 2022. He was born on July 16, 1941 in San Luis Obispo, CA. to Herbert (Red) and Lucy (Phipps) Denison. Don lived in Kings County, graduating from Avenal High School. He obtained his Bachelor's Degree and Teaching Credential from University of the Pacific. He taught elementary grades for more than 20 years in Stockton, CA. schools. Don served 3 years in the United States Army from 1962-1965.

Don met Suzanne, his love and were married in the late 1980's. They made their home of 25 years near Wilseyville, CA. Don was a member of The First Baptist Church of West Point, CA. Don and Suzanne were active members of the California Bluegrass Association and worked at the Fathers Day Festival in Grass Valley, CA. for many years. Suzanne worked as Secretary, publishing the Bluegrass Breakdown Newsletter, and Don was a Board Member, Festival Director, for a number of years. The California Bluegrass Association was a true labor of love for Don and Suzanne.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Elizabeth Gilkey, and his wife Suzanne. He is survived by his daughters Amy Denison and Cary Josephson. Don will be missed by his many friends of Wilseyville and West Point; and friends of the California Bluegrass Association.

The Denison family is appreciative for the excellent care he received from the staff of Lodi Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility in Lodi, CA. and the staff of Bristol Hospice in Lodi, CA.

A Remembrance and Burial Services will be held in April 2023 at the West Point Cemetery in West Point, CA.

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