Tonight, we adjourn with a very heavy heart for a dear friend and colleague, our very own Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commissioner, Don Cruikshank, who passed away last week.
Don moved to the Newhall area of Santa Clarita with his family in 1957 at the young age of four.
After growing up in the Santa Clarita Valley, Don quickly became an integral part of our community, both personally and professionally.
Don was a longtime business owner in Santa Clarita, running both AV Equipment Rentals in Newhall and 24/7 Events in Valencia.
For over 40 years, Don worked hard and successfully became a trusted and respected part of our business community and beyond.
He was an active member of the Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce and won multiple “Business of the Year” awards.
Don was also involved with a variety of nonprofits in Santa Clarita, spending much of his time giving back to the community he was raised in.
Most notably, he served for over 15 years on the Newhall-Saugus Lions Club, actively supporting and improving the health and well-being of the community through humanitarian and volunteer services.
He was a proud supporter of the Santa Clarita Historical Society, donating equipment that most recently helped the roofing and restoration project at Heritage Junction.
Don was also passionate about recreation, especially youth activities, coaching and managing a variety of baseball, softball, soccer, basketball and football teams.
He served as a board member for William S. Hart Pony Baseball and Softball, Hart High Quarterback Club, Hart High School Cheer Boosters and the William S. Hart Marching Regiment.
Don also coached the Hart High School football team for over 23 years and was appointed as a representative to the Hart District Advisory Committee where he was involved with the Career Readiness Collaborative.
In 2016, Don was appointed to the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission, dedicating his time to creating programs, amenities and initiatives that brought residents out into the community to engage in recreational opportunities.
He was an avid supporter of our outdoor programs, as well as our open space initiatives, frequently visiting parks and trail systems with his wife and grandchildren.
Don proudly served on the commission for three terms.
We are thankful for the impact and long-lasting legacy that Don left on our community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and colleagues during this difficult time.