DONALD JAMES COOKSEY of Hemet, died on March 4 of congestive heart failure. He was born in South Gate, California on April 23, 1926. Don served aboard the USS Neshoba during WWII. His ship took part in the South Pacific invasions of several islands including Iwo Jima, Okinowa, Midway and Wake Island. He lived for 20 years in Santa Clarita Valley in the Valencia areas. After retirement he moved to Hemet and was active in the Cactus Stars Square Dance. He enjoy many years of camping at Silent Valley and traveling in his motorhome. Don was a member of the Sierra Dawn Horseshoe Team League as well as the National Horseshoe Assoc. Don is survived by his wife of 62 yrs. Maryanne of Hemet, CA; and daughter Donna Cooksey Brewer of West Virginia, 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Heart Association .