Don Ladiges of Orland, CA passed away on April 18, 2022 at 75 years of age. Don was born on July 13, 1946 in Jacksonville Florida. He was moved to Gilroy, California by his maternal Grandmother.

Don attended San Jose State College, and for 40 years Don worked as a systems analysist for IBM. Don opened new doors of opportunity through him being one of the select few that helped pioneer patients into artificial heart mechanisms through surgeries. As a patient himself Don was implanted with the Saint Jude Artificial Heart Valve.

Don's love of horses and steam engines brought people together as friends, in apart and throughout his life. Everyone always liked him. "When your purpose follows your passion, God makes away for you, always," a life motto for Don.

Don is survived by his Wife of 48 years Debra Ladiges.

In lieu of flowers and gifts donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
Arrangements are held under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary.