Feb. 13, 1944 – July 14, 2018
Donald W. Hagerty, 74, a longtime resident of Corralitos, passed away on July 14, 2018 while doing what he loved the most – working in his garden.
He was born on February 13, 1944 in Los Angeles, CA. Don was raised in a rural area of Southern California. He graduated from Pierce College and Cal Poly with degrees in Agricultural Business Management and a Minor in Animal Science. His graduate work in Agri-Business and Animal Science was done at Texas A & M. Don’s college years were interrupted by serving our country in the United States Army. He was awarded 2 bronze stars with valor and 2 purple hearts for his service in Vietnam. After moving to Corralitos in 1970, his line of work was in agriculture, property management and sales in his personal business – Glove and Garden Connection. His first job was with Pajaro Valley Greenhouse where he was Vice-President and Assistant General Manager. In 1976, he began a 30-year working relationship with the Driscoll Family. His last position was with Rancho Corralitos Nursery in 2009 starting as a consultant and Project Manager, overseeing the renovation and new construction of the nursery, and finishing his career as the Facility Manager. He finally retired on January 17, 2014, to enjoy family, fishing, RVing and working in his garden.
Don has been involved with many community organizations. He was past President and Director of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau, Santa Cruz County Fair, Monterey Bay Flower Growers and many more. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and VFW Aptos Post 10110. He was involved in the Corralitos 4-H Club as Assistant Sheep Leader. Being an eagle scout himself, he became involved again with his son in the Boys Scouts of America as a Tiger Coach, Den Leader, Cub Master, Asst. Scoutmaster, on District and Council Committees, Scoutmaster for Jamboree 2005, and Head of the Eagle Board.
Don is survived by his wife of 24 years, Patricia Anne; his son, Brian; and several cousins.
Celebration of Life will be held at the Corralitos Community Church, 26 Browns Valley Road on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation if you wish to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Disabled American Veterans or the Army Historical Foundation. A private interment will be held at the Fort Ord Cemetery at a later date. Mehl’s Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.
