Donald Paul Warkentin

Donald Paul Warkentin, 73, died peacefully on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023. He was born March 14, 1950, in Bakersfield, to Katherine (Bestvater) and Aaron Warkentin. He lived almost his entire life in Shafter. He attended Shafter High School, class of 1969.

Don learned how to drive a car, and after his father passed in 1973, Don faithfully drove his mom to the grocery store each week. He helped with the shopping, cooking and cleaning. He also mowed the lawn, did outdoor tasks and liked to ride his bicycle.

Elvis Presley was his favorite singer, so Don learned how to play many of those songs on the guitar. Another favorite pastime was playing pool on the table that for years was in the garage. He could beat most comers. Don also liked to watch old cowboy movies, wear cowboy boots and read magazines.

Later in life, you could always hear Elvis music blaring from Don's room while he played Solitaire with his favorite deck of cards or played different handheld animated games.

When his mother passed in 2001, Don's twin brother, Ron, watched out for him for the next 18 years. After Ron passed in 2019, Don was able to remain at home for several years, thanks to the loving care of Brandy Karr.

Don left this world, bound for a better one, while residing at Arvin Post Acute Care in Arvin. Thank you, Diana, for your special care.

Besides his parents, Don was preceded in death by brothers Harold, Henry and Ronald, as well as step-siblings Katie, Orlando and Milton. Still living are sisters Helen, Margaret and Edith, as well as 25 nieces and nephews.

No services are scheduled. Burial will be in Shafter Memorial Park. May he rest in peace.