Donald Robert Kaysser

August 31, 1932 -- March 2, 2017

Former resident of San Francisco & Belmont, CA as well as Chicago, Illinois.

Donald grew up on the south-side of Chicago during the Great Depression. He was raised by an Irish-Catholic, single mom who was a successful business woman. Don graduated from Gage Park High School where he excelled on the swim team, became an accomplished pianist, enjoyed the Science Club, and was a lifeguard at Lake Michigan’s beaches during the summers. His charm and handsome looks made him popular with the ladies. After finishing high school, Don joined the Army to help in the Korean War. He then studied geology at the University of Illinois, which led to a position in oil exploration; a job which required regular travel. Once Donald fell in love and began a family, he found a more stationary career selling some of the earliest IBM computers (as big as a kitchen!). He excelled at sales management where his thoughtfulness and humor inspired his teams. Although Don’s first love did not end up being his forever love, he was a dedicated father to his three children. He eventually relocated to the Bay Area in 1979 to be closer to them. Although lasting love was elusive, Don remained a true romantic and was blessed with several soulmates throughout his life. His hobbies centered around water sports and music: boating, water-skiing, and walks along the ocean, playing piano, watching musicals, and dancing. Don had a song for every occasion.

Don is survived by two loving daughters Terra Wilson-Kaysser (Erik Wilson) of Pleasant Hill, CA, and Tamma KaysserKranich (Holger Kranich) of Phoenix, AZ, and by his grandchildren Kallista and Cameron Wilson, and Karl Kranich. Donald’s son, Troy Kaysser, died in 2000 but never left Don’s loving memory. Donald’s parents, Emil Kaysser from Germany and Marion Ruddy-Kaysser from Chicago, passed away many years ago. Don will be buried next to his mom to whom he was very close. His affectionate, humorous, thoughtful and song-filled presence will be missed by all who knew him.

A memorial event will be on April 2nd in Pleasant Hill, CA. Call Terra at 925-7989696 for details. If you wish, a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation can be made in Donald’s name. Also, please post your memories and thoughts about Don on the Oak Park Hills website: http://www. oakparkhillschapel.com