Donald L. Rossi

With loving remembrance, we celebrate the life of Donald Lane Rossi, born December 19, 1934, in San Francisco to his loving parents, Dominic and Dora Rossi.  Born into a proud Italian-Catholic family, he passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025.

A devout Catholic throughout his life, Donald attended Sacred Heart High School in San Francisco and studied at the University of California, Berkeley.   As a patriot, he later served in the United States Army, stationed in Okinawa. It was there that he developed his closest friendships that endured decades until the very end.  The discipline, responsibility, and loyalty he developed during his Army days stayed with him and carried naturally into his professional life.

Donald later built a successful career in the insurance industry in San Francisco and Sacramento, earning respect for his dedication and genuine care for those he served.  Helping others was central to who he was. To many children and grandchildren in his life, he was affectionately known as “Uncle D” and “Nino Don,” a grounding and caring presence who showed up for family, friends, their children and grandchildren. He faithfully attended life’s milestones—from baptisms and First Communions to graduations and weddings—as well as school recitals, performances, and everyday moments that mattered. He was always ready to lend a hand, fix what needed repair, and quietly offer guidance when it was needed.  He was also a longtime parishioner at St. Patrick’s Church in Larkspur.  

Even-tempered, thoughtful, and humorous, Donald loved Italian music, classic crooners, good food, and good company. He was a talented cook, best known for his linguini alle vongole and pesto, which he prepared from time to time, and he cherished his trips  to Italy.

Uncle D made everyday moments special—helping decorate Christmas trees, enjoying walks with loved ones, sharing advice, and celebrating holidays over a good meal. He could also be a kid at heart, soaking in simple pleasures like riding a wooden roller coaster at Knott’s Berry Farm, contagiously laughing for everyone nearby.

Donald Rossi will be remembered as a man of faith, service, and kindness, who had a positive influence on so many others.  He will be missed.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Larkspur on January 7 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Graveside Service January 8, 2026 at Ocean View Memorial Park Cemetery, Eureka, California

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