Donald W. Lanning

Donald W. Lanning lived his 87 years with curiosity in his mind, grease on his hands, and a smile that could turn a stranger into a friend. He passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, at Serenity House in Santa Barbara, California, surrounded by love.

Born on August 11, 1937, in Richmond, California, Donald’s journey brought him to Santa Barbara as a toddler — a place that would forever be his home. As a boy, he could often be found taking things apart just to see how they worked, a trait that stayed with him for life.

He graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1955, then proudly served his country in the United States Army as a mechanic. It was there that his love for machines deepened, though his favorite creations were always on four wheels. After his service, he earned his teaching degree from Fresno State University, ready to share his skills with the next generation.

Cars weren’t just a hobby for Donald — they were part of his identity. From the shine of chrome to the purr of a perfectly tuned engine, he especially loved his 1932 Ford hot rods. He was a proud member of several car clubs, where he found lifelong friendships and never hesitated to help someone else get their car back on the road.

For three decades, Donald taught Industrial Arts at Buena High School, Dos Pueblos High School, and Santa Barbara High School. His classroom was a place where lessons went far beyond textbooks — where he taught respect for craftsmanship, the value of hard work, confidence and the pride of building something with your own hands. He was known as a tough but fair teacher, and many of his students carried his lessons into their careers, hobbies, and lives.

Donald was also an avid tennis player into his early 80s and said he would hit “green fuzzies” until his knees gave out.

Donald’s life was marked by kindness, humor, and a steadfast devotion to his family and friends. Whether he was fixing an engine, telling a good story, or lending a hand without being asked, he left people better than he found them.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy — of skill, laughter, and generosity — will keep running strong in the lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.