Donald “Don” Burton Davey, 98, of San Clemente, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 11, 2026. He was born on December 30, 1927 in Monrovia, California to Edward Alfred Davey and Lorraine Beatrice (Hilliker) Davey.

Don lived a life defined by hard work, ingenuity, dedication and quiet strength. He was a man of deep devotion to family who leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for generations.

He spent much of his childhood in Sierra Madre, California where he lived next door to his future bride, Donis Evangeline Simpson. They married on February 14, 1951 and together they built a life of adventure, raising three sons in Monrovia and later in San Clemente, California.

Don served in the Navy and after an honorable discharge he went on to have a successful career working in the civil service, spending time working in radio communications on San Clemente Island and other locations off the coast of Southern California. He retired after more than 30 years of service, and then went on to form his own handyman company, “Don Duz.” Don could fix just about anything and built a reputation as the go-to man in San Clemente for home repairs. His work ethic and excellent service earned the respect and lifelong friendship of the many people fortunate to know him.

Having settled in San Clemente in 1972, Don and Donis spent many years strolling T Street Beach, enjoying the ocean, and advocating for preservation of San Clemente’s history. From the oceanfront home they loved, they welcomed many family and visitors over the years, entertaining with their old-fashioned player piano and enjoying beautiful sunsets on their front porch. After more than 52 years of marriage, Donis preceded him in death on December 26, 2003.

Don deeply loved his family, and is remembered for the handcrafted wagon, building blocks and other children’s toys he built for his grandsons, some of which his great-grandchildren still use today. He spent many happy days with his family on the beach, teaching his grandsons to boogie board in the waves and build sandcastles while also offering instruction on how to do various projects. What wonderful memories he gave us all! Those who knew him remember his dry wit, his generosity and kindhearted nature.

He is survived by his sons Dean and Dan, daughters-in-law Angela and Victoria, grandsons Joshua (Mari) and Jesse (Lily), and 15 great-grandchildren, and many dear friends, including his longtime caregiver Kalina. In addition to his wife Donis, he was preceded in death by his sister Mary-Jane, his brother Richard, and his son Douglas.

A private burial at sea, where he will be reunited with Donis, will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the San Clemente Historical Society in Don’s memory.