Donald L. Cox was born July 3, 1931 in Rock Island, Illinois. He passed away on October 20, 2007 at home with his wife, children, grandchildren, and special friends at his side. He attended Rock Island High School and joined the United States Air Force where he served from 1950-1954. Following his honorable discharge from the military, he worked as an aircraft mechanic at Norton Air Force Base. While working at Norton Air Force Base, he met his beautiful wife Barbara. He secured a job at Vandenberg Air Force Base and moved the family to Lompoc in 1960. He continued his career in civil service at Vandenberg and retired in 1990 as a Logistics Support Officer. Those who knew Don knew of his love for the garden. He spent countless hours in the yard and received numerous beautification awards from the city of Lompoc for his beautiful yard. Following his retirement, Don spent many hours and days with his three grandchildren. He enjoyed taking them to the park, having a picnic in the yard and walking them through his gardens. They played with his trains and enjoyed the game room he created for them. He attended all of their baseball, basketball, soccer and football games and enjoyed every minute.

Don is survived by his lovely wife of 47 years, Barbara; his three children, Garry Cox of Lompoc, Diane Long of Lompoc and Bill Cox and his wife Amy of San Jose; three grandchildren, Corey Cox, Christopher Long and Nicole Cox; great granddaughter Cadence Cox; sisters Lucille Cox, Christine Lague and Joanne Brooks, all of Illinois, and his very special and dear friends Keri Schrader and Corey and Nicole's mom, Annie Evans. Mr. Cox was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Fay Cox.

At Mr. Cox's request, private services will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a donation to the local blood bank or a contribution to your favorite charity.

The arrangements are under the direction of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.