DONALD ANDRE LAMBE

Jan. 22, 1930 - Feb. 27, 2018

Donald Andre Lambe, 88, passed away February 27, 2018 surrounded by family. Don was born January 22, 1930 in Brawley, CA because there were no hospitals in Westmorland, where his parents, Raleigh and Breta resided. He attended school in Westmorland from 1st to 4th grade. The family moved to Brawley and Don completed grade school and graduated from Brawley High School. Don entered the Navy in 1952. In 1955 he married Barbara Ruth (Ellis), whom he met in the 5th grade. They were married 48 years, until Barbara passed away in 2003. Don flew crop dusters during his adult life, working for various companies and his own. For 30 years he held a “Hanger Party” for the Blue Angels. In 2001, Don had the greatest honor of becoming a Honorary Flight Leader (Boss) of the Blue Angels.

Don was a life member of the Navy League of United States. He held the offices of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer of I.V. Council Navy League. He also served on the Board of Directors for over 20 years. Don was a life member (47+ years) of the American Legion and Elks (54+ years). He served for 5 years on Board of Directors for Elks and Brawler Airport Commission. Don was in charge of placing American flags on Veterans graves at River view Cemetery on Memorial Day for over 10 years.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara; sister, Charlene; granddaughter, Chelsie Lambe and long time companion, Kathy Wood.

He is survived by sons, Wes (Les) Lambe, Gary (Alicia) Lambe and daughter, Darlene (Frank) Ballesteros; grandchildren, Niki (Rodney) Braga, Kristin Paladino, Jennifer Domeno, Russell (Cheryl) Lambe, Michael (Jennifer) Ballesteros; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Skyler, Addyson, Reese, Sebastian, Carter, Sterling and Sadie; sister-in-law, Myrna McCluan (Howard) and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 24, 2018, 11 a.m. at Brawley American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Imperial Valley Pioneer Museum.