KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – Donald “Don” Leroy Saderlund, 78, a lifetime resident of Kelseyville, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2014, due to complications following a fall at his home.

He was born in Kelseyville on Aug. 16, 1936, to Lucille Smith and Charles “Elmer” Saderlund. 

He grew up in Kelseyville and married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Walker, on Aug. 5, 1956. 

Don went on to join the United States Air Force and proudly served for 20 years until his retirement. He and Shirley moved back to Lake County and remained here until his death. 

Don also worked for the Lake County Air Pollution Control and the Lakeport Police Department where he is best know for his work with his companion police dog “Max.”

While in the Air Force, Don was fortunate to spend time in Africa, tour Europe and live for six years in Hawaii.

He loved to spend his free time panning for gold and in his earlier years hunting with his sons. He also was seen many weekends at the farmer's markets selling his custom woodwork.

Don is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley Saderlund; son, Robert (Cathy) Saderlund; daughters, Donna (Dan) Hall and Angela Wendland; 10 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his son Roy Charles Saderlund on March 6, 2004.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, at Kelseyville Cemetery, 3375 Bell Hill Road.

There will be a potluck reception following at the Kelseyville United Methodist Church, 3810 Main St.

Three words that sum up the life … “I've found Mecca.”

For further information please contact Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .