Donald “Don” Melvin McIntyre, age 88, of Lompoc, California, passed away on August 15, 2026, in Lompoc.

Born January 24, 1938, to Ivis and Sam McIntyre, he graduated from Cavalier High School in North Dakota in 1956 and earned his degree from Mayville State University in 1961.

On June 14, 1961, he married the love of his life, Leah Rae Boe. The couple lived in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where Leah taught and Don coached baseball, before moving to Lompoc in 1962. He later earned his master’s degree in physical education from Cal Poly and spent his career in Lompoc schools as a physical education teacher and coach of basketball, baseball, and football. He ended his career by being athletic director at Cabrillo High School after 35 years of service.

A lifelong athlete, Don played football, basketball, baseball, and track in college. He was inducted into the Mayville State University Hall of Fame for his contributions to its athletic programs and was also honored by the Northern Santa Barbara County Hall of Fame and the Cabrillo High School Alumni Hall of Fame.

Don is survived by his wife, Leah; his children Jim and Corey (Diane); his grandchildren Morgan and Maiya, who brought him great pride and joy; and his brother Marvin (Maxine). He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Richard.

The family extends special thanks to the medical and nursing staff who cared for him as well as to the coaches, colleagues, and athletes of Mayville State and Cabrillo High School who were an important part of his life’s work and joy.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at the Lompoc Elks Lodge at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Mayville State Athletics or Cabrillo High School Athletics to support student athletes.

Don will be remembered for his positive outlook, his dedication to education and his love of sports. His greatest legacy lives on in the students believed in, the athletes he guided, and the family who loved him deeply.

Mayville State Foundation                                                                                                                  Cabrillo High School Athletics

330 Third St NE                                                                                                                                  4350 Constellation Road

Mayville, N. Dak 58257                                                                                                                        Lompoc Ca 93436

www.mayvillestate.edu/mintyre