“If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you’ve made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand” - Unknown
Obituary
W Donald Ray Willhite Jr. (known to most as "DJ") from Poway, CA passed away suddenly on the evening of October 8, 2024 at the age of 40.
DJ was born and raised in Poway. He attended Valley Elementary School, Meadowbrook Middle School and graduated from Poway High School. Known for his generous spirit and unwavering loyalty, he touched the lives of everyone he met and left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him. DJ was always ready with a smile, a big bear hug or an encouraging word. He loved those close to him fiercely, especially his son Tyler.
DJ was intelligent, quick-witted, funny, friendly and genuinely kind and respectful. He was a gentle giant with a heart of gold and gave what he could, when he could. His chosen profession was Auto Body Estimating, a job he performed for 18+ years. DJ loved being outdoors and often spent time at the beach listening to the ocean and watching sunrises or sunsets.
DJ is survived by Cathleen & Jeff Orr (parents); Tyler Keough (son); Kelly Willhite-Koryta (sister); Rachel Orr (sister); Erin Talbert (sister); Tod Koryta (brother-in-law); Randy Talbert (brother-in-law); Dan Bell (brother); Carol Smell (Grandmother); Cindy Smell (Aunt); Deborah Nisenoff (Aunt); Tammy Van Herreweghe (Aunt); Ray Smell (Uncle); Stephen Nisenoff (uncle); Nephews: Hunter Poe, Bryan Willhite-Koryta, Caleb Willhite-Koryta and Eli Talbert; Nieces: Jennifer Willhite-Koryta and Jena Talbert; lots of cousins, second cousins and many friends he called family. He is greatly missed and will be forever loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday November 22, 2024, at the Poway Community Park in the Oak Hall East Room located at 13094 Civic Center Dr. Poway, CA 92064 from 5:30 - 8:00. Food will be served from 5:30pm - 6:30pm with services, sharing and reflecting following.
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fought them off every day. He was way to young to leave us, but just maybe he had a calling far far away. And knowing DJ , he would answer that call..You will be missed my friend.
Gram.
Love,
Brat
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He also LOVED watching sports. He was a dedicated Padres fan and loved Tony Gwynn; he even had a personalized license plate “19SD394” made for his truck in Gynn's honor.
He was an expert at quoting "one-liners" from movies and he’d spontaneously belt out impersonations which always made people laugh.
Alcoholic - Various beers and ales.