Dionicio V. Valenzuela died Tuesday morning at home in Pirtleville, Arizona surrounded by his family. Dionicio, also known as "Mr. Don" fought a courageous battle against cancer for the last four years. Mr. Don was born in Douglas, Arizona on November 19, 1935, to Margarita and Dionisio Valenzuela

As a young man, he joined his brothers Rosalio and Dolores working the truck farms in Double Adobe and Elfrida. He was an outstanding baseball player and later coached the Pirtleville All Stars.

He married the love of his life Maria while working as an apprentice body and fender man for Southern Arizona Auto Co. Mr. Don began working at Phelps Dodge Copper Smelter at the age of 19 and retired after 33 years. He is remembered as a skilled repairman and a leader shop steward. Outside of the love for his family, Mr. Don had a great love of the outdoors. He enjoyed cookouts on weekends with family and friends. Sharing his unique sense of humor throughout the meal. His conversations always included a constant message that education is the key for success. He was best remembered as a kind, warm and extremely generous gentleman.

On many occasions he donated his time and effort to accomplish whatever was asked of him. Many remember him as their counselor, reminding them that he could help them… but one thing he couldn't do … was weld a broken heart. He was a father figure to many that were in need. Mr. Don was a man of strong faith, which supported and carried him through life and illness.

Mr. Don and Maria have been blessed with four children. Surviving Mr. Don are Arturo and Gloria of Tucson, Ruben and Dena of Douglas, Barbara and Alfred Grijalva of Douglas, and Larry  of Tucson. He had four grandchildren with the oldest being Ruben Jr. (San Leandro CA) then Mandy (Colorado), Riccardo (Douglas) and Jessica (Chandler). He has five great grandchildren: Marissa, Maryina, Kannon, Willie, Hayley, and Jessica has one on the way. Brothers Rosalio and Dolly of Washington, Alfonso and Joan of Tucson, Manuel and Sylvia of Douglas, Serafina and Manuel of Pirtleville, Lydia and Gordon (deceased) of Douglas, and his sister Maggie of Douglas.  He also had numerous nephews and nieces. Mr. Don was preceded in death by his mother Margarita and father Dionisio, his sister Eunice and his brother Dolores.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Douglas. Reverend Carlos Montano officiated at the church and cemetery services.
A reception was held for all of Mr. Don's family and friends at the church. Individuals who desire to contribute a donation in lieu of flowers in honor of Dionicio Valenzuela, donation can be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, Dionicio Valenzuela.