Donald H. Poole

DONALD HARVEY POOLE

OCT. 19, 1929-SEPT 10, 2022

Donald Harvey Poole was born in Hanford California on October 19, 1929 to Albert Edward and Suzie Frances (Thomas) Poole. He attended area schools and played football for Visalia Union High School graduating with the class of 1947. 10 days later he joined the Navy with his mother’s permission and was inducted into what was known as “the diaper cruise”. While in the Navy Don served as an aviation Structural Mechanic. In Alaska-Kodiak, Adak and Tanaga on the Bering Sea. Don was a veteran of the Korean conflict, with 44 months of sea duty.

After the Navy Don was employed at Star Laundry in Visalia. Don met Betty Ann Mc Murry at the Visalia roller skating rink.  They were married in Reno Nevada June 2, 1950. Don and Betty had two Children, a son Daniel Harvey Poole, and a daughter Elizabeth Ann.

In 1956 Don moved his family to southern CA where he became employed with Alpha Beta Markets loading trucks. He advanced as a driver, a supervisor and eventually the Produce distribution manager for the company's warehouse in La Habra Ca. In 1973 Don and Betty decided to move back to the valley, and Don returned to Star Laundry as a route driver. The Laundry sold to Mission Linens and Don was promoted to Service Manager. He retired from Mission Linen in 1991.

In retirement Don enjoy working on and restoring classic cars. He and Betty enjoyed square dancing and were very active members of the Charter Oak A’s Model A club until the time of her passing on December 4, 1999. Don and Betty were married 49.5 years. They had two Grandsons, Randall and Russell Gunderman.

Don Married Donna McMurry in 2000. They traveled many places in various RV’s including Canada, Alaska and multiple national parks. They continued to participate with car clubs, cruise nights and parades, as well as playing bingo and occasional trips to the local casinos.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Constance Ervin, his brother Douglas Poole, and his son Daniel. 

Don is survived by his daughter Beth Gunderman, Grandsons Randy and (wife) Jody Gunderman, Russell and (wife Jessica) Gunderman, and Jennifer Gibson of Spokane WA. Great Granddaughters Reese and Rylee Gunderman all of Exeter. Autumn, Joy, Kaity and Gee Nelson of Centerville UT. As well as Scott and Sandi Gibson of Chester Ca. Niece's Gail Bartlett of Porterville and Donna Bingham of Castaic. Nephews Richard Nichols of Sanger, Greg Nichols and Scott Poole both of Porterville.

A Celebration of life will be held at 10:00 AM Sunday October 16, 2022 at the Poole Ranch 2098 N. Filbert Rd. Exeter California 93221.

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