Don Lee Pettit

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Lee Pettit, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. Born on July 28, 1943, in Tulare, California, Don left us on October 21, 2026, after an accident. He lived a life filled with warmth, humor, and generosity. Don was the cherished son of Eva Hyles and Pete Pettit, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Carol-Jo Pettit, with whom he shared an enduring love story that began on July 14, 1962, in Santa Barbara, California. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Don Pettit and Carrie Prechtel, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and laughter. His family was his pride and joy, and he adored his five grandchildren: Molly Marple, Catie Prechtel, Haley Pixler, Grace Prechtel, and Ben Pettit and two great-grandchildren Evie and Russell, and his spirit and humor will continue to inspire future generations. Don is also survived by his dear sister Ruth Ann Williams, and siblings Dale Hyles, Glenda Elliott, Debi Sigmon, and Margaret Pettit. Don's life was marked by service and adventure. After graduating from Santa Maria High School in 1961, he served his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force from 1962 to 1966. Stationed in Okinawa, Japan, he contributed to the 15th Reconnaissance Technical Squadron by transcribing intercepted Morse Code and later developing reconnaissance photographs from March Air Force Base in California. The bulk of his career was devoted to law enforcement, serving as a Police Officer, Sheriff’s Deputy, and finally as a Parole Officer. His dedication to lifelong learning led him to earn a Bachelor's degree in Criminology in 1987. In his “retirement” he worked at local golf courses, drove buses for elder care facilities, and delivered books to child care facilities for the library. Together with Carol-Jo, he established a farm in Grants Pass, where they nurtured animals and cultivated roses, reflecting their shared love for nature and beauty. A man of diverse talents, Don was an avid golfer, diligently working towards his pro-golf certification and sharing his passion through teaching. Don and Carol-Jo shared a passion for travel, which they took up a notch after retiring by traveling the west by motorhome. His passion for earth science began during geology courses at community college in Riverside and continued to his ending days as a member of the Crater Rock Museum. Despite a stroke in 2011, he continued to find joy and creativity in crafting beautiful jewelry, a testament to his resilience and love for artistry. Known for his practical jokes and infectious laughter, Don never met a stranger. He brought joy as the DJ at his retirement home and showed compassion by dining with those in need of company. His generous spirit and caring nature left a lasting impact on everyone he met. A celebration of Don's life will be held on Friday, December 4, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Eagle Point National Cemetery, located at 2763 Riley Rd, Eagle Point, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations to Celia's House (https://www.sofriendsofhospice.org/ways-to-give/) or the Crater Rock Museum (https://craterrock.com/crater-rock-museum/donations/). The family extends their deepest gratitude to Celia's House for their gentle support during his hospice care. Don's legacy of love, laughter, and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.