I heard about this sad news last week from a local tech friend that visited Don's place weekly to work on fixing whatever issues came along with his latest purchases. I'm still in disbelief
I met Don a few years ago when he contacted me about buying my BBB, which he did, and we became good friends for the most part. I live pretty close to him, and usually went up to his place once a week to hang out, work on games, order pizza, take my truck to buy a game, help him pack or unpack games, go to Canters Deli at midnight. Pinball, fast cars, music, Rolex watches, traveling, fishing, boats were always the conversation.
All the stories I've read here are true, and then some. He was truly one of a kind. A bachelor with endless time (until now) and resources to pursue his pinball passion. Always games coming and going to and from all over the country. Always on the phone when I was there making deals, talking, laughing, yelling - you name it. His house was full of pinball machines, mods, and parts. Not junk and crap though - really nice stuff - everywhere. As others who visited him stated, it was always fun to see what new at Don's
Most all the pinball people here in CA knew him or knew about him. I hadn't spoken with him recently because life got busy, but kept thinking I really should call him and see how things are going. Now I wish I had. Rest in peace Don.
Here are some pics I took off his back deck overlooking Coldwater Canyon, as it was always such a great spot to see, and a couple of the cars he loved...
