Donald Austin Balaam passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Monday, June 1, 2015 at the South Lyon Medical Center/Long Term Care in Yerington, Nevada. He was 86.

Don was born on September 24, 1928 in Exeter, California the son of H. Austin and Vera (Glaze) Balaam. The family moved from Exeter to Yerington where they purchased and ran a small farm south of town when Don was a young man.

Don married Marie Lommori on December 4, 1949 and their family was complete with the birth of their two sons, Dennis and Bruce.

Don left the family ranch in 1967 and moved the family to town where he held various jobs including working for Peoples Meat packing, Valley Dairy, Pargas and finally retiring from Napa Auto Parts in 1994. After retirement, Don took on duties of the local brand inspector which he enjoyed for several years. during his life he enjoyed raising and showing registered Herford bulls. He also loved racing stock cars and was president of the Mason Valley Auto Racing Association during the early 1970's. He enjoyed snowmobiling with family and friends. He and his son, Bruce, spent many hours restoring a 1937 Ford Pickup which was his pride and joy. Don and Marie could be found at many a car shows over the years.

He is survived by his sister, Jeanne Stillfield, his son Bruce and his wife Ellen Balaam; his grandchildren, Darin (Heather) Balaam, Tanya (Dean) Morgan and Jessica Balaam; his great grandchildren, David, Devon, Logan and Paige Balaam and Chance and Blaine Morgan. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Dody Newell, his wife, Marie and eldest son, Dennis.

In honoring Don's wishes no public service will be held. Family and friends are invited to sign his online guest book at www.FRFH.net, also sympathy cards may be sent directly to Bruce from this site. Donations in Don's name may be made to a charity of one's choice.

Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Freitas Rupracht Funeral Home, 25 Hwy 208 Yerington, Nevada 89447 (775) 463-2911.