Donald Karl Nordgren's Obituary
Don died peacefully in his home surrounded by all his loved ones on November 1, 2021. Donald was born in Nashwauk, Minnesota to Earl and Helen Nordgren. He joined the U.S. Navy with his parents' consent at 17 years old. He did his basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois. After a few stops he ended up in Honolulu, Hawaii where he met his future wife, Katherine Cabral. They were married in Honolulu, Hawaii September 25th of 1955. All of their 4 children were born in Hawaii. The family left Hawaii and ended up settling in San Diego in a new community called Clairemont which they have called home for over 60 years. Don served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years; he served in the Korean war and 3 tours of Vietnam. He loved serving his country and loved to talk about his time in the service. Don retired from the Navy in 1971 and soon found his next calling. Don was always a car guy, so in 1987 Don and his sons founded Pacific Coast Auto Body. Even after Don Sr was done over seeing the daily operations of the business he continued to come in daily, just to hang out with us. He truly enjoyed coming to the shop. Don loved old cars and boats and restored many thru the years. Don also enjoyed country music and saw many of the great artists thru the years.
Don is survived by his wife, Katherine, his four children, Don Jr., Earl, Tamra and Corine, nine grandchildren and three great-grand children. A sister, Nancy Mcclain of Marble, Minnesota and a sister, Barbara Bissel of Trenton, Florida. Don was a loving husband, father and Papa to many and he will be missed beyond words.
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