Obituary of Donald Gugeler, 100
– Donald Fremont Gugeler passed away peacefully in Paso Robles, Ca. on March 24, 2026, a few weeks shy of his 101st birthday.
He was born on April 11th 1925, in the outskirts of Des Moines, Iowa, across the railroad tracks on the way to the hospital, to Althea and Rev. Roy Gugeler. In 1949, he married his true love, Helen Elizabeth Ferguson. Together they raised 4 children and celebrated 76 years of marriage on December 28, 2025.
Don was a veteran (USAF) , an accomplished musician, and worked in the aerospace field for 33 years, as well as a dedicated father and husband. The family lived in Los Angeles and Huntington Beach, California from 1956 until 1983. Don then retired in Arroyo Grande, after building his innovative passive solar house, where he became focused on his music and involvement with the United Methodist church in Arroyo Grande, California.
He was known for his love of music, contributing to several bands with his skill on the clarinet, saxophone, and oboe. He also sang in many choirs though the years, as well as a Barbershop chorus and quartets.
He is survived by wife Helen Gugeler, children Margaret Ward, (Larry) Bill Gugeler (Kathryn), Diane Baas (Randy), Pamela Hays (Hal), 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister Doris Ziegler, and brother Paul Gugeler.
A celebration of life will be held at the United Methodist Church in Arroyo Grande, California on July 17 at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers please consider mailing a donation in his name to Central Coast Hospice, 253 Granada Suite D, San Luis Obispo, Ca 93401. Cards may be sent to Helen Gugeler, 1919 Creston Rd #111, Paso Robles, CA 93446.
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