Donnie was born to Antonio (Tony) and Claire Taro. Donnie graduated from Oakdale High School in 1973. Growing up on the Taro Ranch, Donnie helped with the dairy cows, beef cattle, and growing rice alongside his father, Tony. Donnie had many accomplishments during his lifetime. He belonged to the Oakdale JC’s, Knights Ferry Odd Fellows and often attended the monthly pancake breakfasts in Knights Ferry with his longtime companion, Linnie. Donnie cherished special moments with Linnie, traveling the countryside and their daily soda trips to town. He was very involved in his community. Donnie was on the Valley Home School Board, a volunteer Fireman for Valley Home and Chairman of the Valley Home Park Board. He enjoyed mowing the lawn at the Valley Home Park, as well as his own yard.

When it came to his character, he was very strong willed and opinionated. Donnie didn’t have a problem with letting you know what he was thinking, good or bad. He had a very good sense of humor that could make people laugh. Donnie had several close friends that were always there to help him when needed. His close friend, Dave (Davey) Ferreira (brother), Keith and Stella Pope, Kenny Cullum, Cody Bartholomew and Cooper Bartholomew.

Donnie is survived by his son, Anthony (Miranda), granddaughter Amelia and grandson (Levi), soon to be born. His sister, Vicki (Leo) Albers, nephew Justin (Jamie) Layton, nieces Kristin Layton and Staci Albers, as well as three great nephews, three great nieces and one great-great nephew and his longtime companion Linnie Keaster.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, June 5 at Burwood Cemetery, 28320 E. River Road, Escalon at 10 a.m. Following the service, a gathering will be held at the Valley Home Park, 13218 Minnesota, Valley Home.

Potluck, barbecued chicken will be provided.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

The Riverbank (Calif.) News

June 4, 2025