Donald Valentine DeCosta

Born on April 10th, 1930 and passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026 at the age of 95 just short of his 96th birthday.Don was preceded in death by his loving parents, adored wife, siblings and several other family members and friends.Don was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, however he lived most of his life with his loving wife in Petaluma, CA.Don served as a bus boy and a soda jerk at Hickam Air Force Base as a young boy. He was there during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Don was also very proud to say that he served as an altar boy. He was the only one at the time that learned the prayers in both English and Latin for the soldiers on base. After much pleading, he convinced his mother to let him enlist in the Army at the young age of 17. He joined the Army, following in his brother’s footsteps.

Don was proud to serve our county in both the Vietnam War, Korean War, and he was instrumental in Occupied Japan as well where he met his wife. He taught at Mare Island where he eventually retired from the service.

Don attended St. James Church faithfully. He was a proud member of the VFW, serving in the honor guard for over 20 years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Don loved spending time with friends at several pubs around Petaluma. He was treasured as a hometown hero and an amazing friend to all who knew him. He enjoyed singing karaoke, listening to music, and telling stories about “the good old days.” Don talked openly about his service days and childhood. No story was a secret with Don. Often in earlier years he would drive his parents and his wife around in his beloved blue Mercedes simply admiring the beauty of Sonoma County and all life had to offer.

Don never complained. Even when he could no longer get around, he was grateful to have a sharp mind and to be at home.

Don was the kindest soul with the sweetest of intentions. His happiness radiated from his little smirk, the twinkle in his eyes, often with a hint of mischief! He had a way of brightening everyone’s day and approached every situation with a positive attitude and zero judgment. He finished every conversation with a smile, a nod, a brief pause before saying: May God bless you and keep you safe. Don will be deeply missed, but he was ready to meet his loved ones and enter heaven. Meet me under the sweetheart tree, until we meet again, Cin Cin dear friend.

Please join us to celebrate the life of this very accomplished hero and loved friend. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, March 16th 11:00 at St. James Church, 125 Sonoma Mountain Parkway, Petaluma, followed by military honors at Cypress Hill Memorial Park, Petaluma, California