Donald Philip McCown

Donald Philip McCown, a brilliant engineer, devoted husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025. He was 85.

Born on April 6, 1940, in San Diego, Don pursued his passion for engineering at the University of California at Berkeley, where he earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Electrical Engineering. His career as a research engineer at IBM was marked by innovation, intellectual rigor, and a deep commitment to advancing his field.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Don was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Janet, and a proud, supportive father to his son, Neil, and daughter, Heather. All who knew him cherished his thoughtful insights, loyal friendship, and kind spirit.

Don's passions extended well beyond his professional life. He was an avid reader and accomplished bridge player, a devoted gardener with a special love for stone fruit trees, and a lifelong lover of the outdoors. He delighted in flying as a private pilot, indulged in his fondness for chocolate, and took great pride in his alma mater, UC Berkeley.

He was an active member of Unit 524 of the American Contract Bridge League, where he found both camaraderie and intellectual challenge.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on November 29, 2025 in Morgan Hill. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Berkeley Engineering Fund: (give.berkeley.edu/supporteng).

As Mark Twain once wrote, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." Those who knew Don can attest that he found his "why" in his family, his work, and his passions. He lived each day with purpose, love, and curiosity, and he will be deeply missed.

Published in Morgan Hill Times · November 7, 2025