Donald David Kawakami passed away July 19, 2025 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on November 1, 1948 to Sam and Dora Kawakami in French Camp, CA and later moved with his family to Elk Grove where he resided until his death. He graduated from Elk Grove High School in 1966 and in 1967 joined the US Army, 101 Airborne Division, serving in Vietnam. He was enormously proud of his military service. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and Bronze Star for meritorious service and bravery under fire. He was also awarded the Purple Heart for wounds suffered in two separate engagements. Once in bitter fighting in Saigon, and the second time in a battle near the demilitarized zone near the Cambodian border.

Donald loved the outdoors and was an avid hiker. He enjoyed hiking and fishing in CA national parks, including Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and Mount Whitney. He enjoyed traveling and visited many historical sites throughout America. He traveled to Europe in 1977 to take his mother to visit her family in Italy, immersing himself in her Italian culture.

He was a devoted son, brother, and uncle. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Eddy Kawakami and his niece, Sherry Eaton. He is survived by his sister, Lillian Glantz (Jerry) and brother, George Kawakami, nephew Brian Glantz, and great nephew, DaTone Eaton, as well as his beloved cats.

He remains forever remembered and deeply missed by his Family.