Donald "Don" Francis Petrotta

Potatos,” “Mr. P”)

Donald Francis Petrotta, lovingly known as “Potatos” and “Mr. P” passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 87. Don was born in Glendale, California to Natale and Frances Petrotta and lived a life defined by family, friendship, hard work, and a passion for adventure.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane O. Petrotta. He is survived by his daughters, Denise Kemper (Shane), Natalie Nelson, and Dawn Vedral (Steve); and by his eight cherished grandchildren, Danielle, Paige, Sydney, Jack, Orion, Faurest, Jonah, and Abigail.

Don grew up in La Cañada Flintridge, California, on his parents’ farmland and service station located at the corner of Foothill Boulevard and Cornishon Avenue. He attended St. Bede the Venerable Catholic School and later graduated from St. Francis High School. Much of the family farmland would later become part of the La Cañada Unified School District and the site of Lanterman Auditorium. A portion remained as his parents’ residence, while the family service station property ultimately became Foothill Executive Plaza, a commercial office complex that Don built and operated from 1980 until August 2024.

A dedicated businessman, Don worked in the family enterprises from 1963 through 2005, including Champion Irrigation Products, formerly Champion Brass Manufacturing of Los Angeles, and Valley Brass Manufacturing of El Monte. These companies were founded in 1937 by his father-in-law, Anton W. Pejsa, and his brothers, and Don took great pride in helping continue the family’s legacy.

Don will perhaps be remembered most for his lifelong passion for horsepower. Whether on water or land, he loved to go fast—or at least sound like it. Cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and boats always had to be the biggest, loudest and highest horsepower available. They not only had to perform fast, they had to look fast, and Don took great joy in building and enjoying his beloved hot rods.

Drag boat racing was a major part of Don’s life through 1978, where he formed countless lifelong friendships with fellow adrenaline enthusiasts. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he was inducted into the Drag Boat Racing Hall of Fame in 2022. Even after stepping away from competitive racing, he remained close to the racing community, participating in water ski races as a boat driver and attending Harley-Davidson drag racing events.

Motorcycling brought Don another extended family of friends. He treasured his years riding Harley-Davidsons, attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and traveling through the Black Hills of South Dakota—experiences he often counted among his favorites.

To his family and friends, Don was known as a sweet, generous man with an ornery streak that kept everyone on their toes. He loved life, parties, and gathering people together. Few places brought him more happiness than the Parker Strip, where he created countless memories on and off the water. His hospitality was legendary, and he welcomed not only his daughters but also their many friends into a world of fun, laughter, and adventure.

Don also possessed a deep appreciation for local and family history, weather, geography, and astronomy. His knowledge, curiosity, and gift for storytelling made every conversation memorable. Whether sharing family history, sharing tales of La Canada’s early days, discussing weather patterns, or recounting one of his many adventures, Don had a way of bringing stories to life.

More than anything, Don valued the people around him. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, friendship, generosity, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed by his family, lifelong friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May his stories continue to be told, his laughter continues to be remembered, and his spirit continue to RIDE ON!