Donald Cardwell, Jr passed away at home in Roseland, Louisiana on April 26, 2022. Many knew him as Skip, a nickname bestowed upon him by his grandfather a dredger, or AAA DON. Don was born and raised by Don, Sr., and his wife Marjorie Cardwell on the family ranch along with his brother Doug. Don attended schools in Chowchilla graduating with the C.U.H.S. Class of 1964.

Don had a successful career with AAA in both California and Montana, as well as for the State of Montana as an Alcohol and Tobacco Agent. He served many years as a reserve police officer protecting and serving where he received a commendation for his assistance with the 1976 Chowchilla Bus Kidnapping.
Don never met a stranger and received many accolades for his excellent customer service and serving others.

Don was civic minded and dedicated himself to serving his community. He worked tirelessly with the Chowchilla Lions Club and Broadwater County Lions in Townsend, Montana. Don also belonged to the Madera County Trade Club, and served years as the Madera Area Representative for Ducks Unlimited.

Don loved nothing more than being with friends. Especially, out on a duck blind on a cold foggy morning and was an avid hunter and angular. It brought him great joy spending time outdoors taking his children fishing at the family cabin. Don loved baseball. He spent a lot of time coaching and umpiring youth baseball. But even more, he loved following his son Lance around the Pacific Northwest chasing baseballs, mountain bike racing, ski racing amongst living life to the fullest.

Don is survived by his love, Candy of 40 years, daughters Christine (Andy) Beltz, Kari Anderson, Dawnette (Jonathan) Thomas, Denise Cardwell (spouse of Shawn Cardwell), son Donald Lance (Regina) Cardwell, brother Doug Cardwell, and 11 grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Marjorie, and son Shawn.

The family will have a private ceremony with Don's final resting place in Montana. and asks that any donations be made to an organization of your choice.
For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.