Newport News, VA - Donald “The Funkmaster” Funkhauser, age 89, passed away at home on June 21, 2025.

As he requested, jazz played in the background, while his hand was held and memories of good times were recanted by his good friend Delia. Loyal dog companions Honey Buns and Red Bull were by his side providing comfort as he moved from this world to the next.

Don was born in Denver, Colorado in 1935. Serving briefly in the Army, he then built a career in the grocery business. At 32 he married the “love of his life” Sami (Leona Medina Funkhauser), and settled into the historic beach town of San Juan Capistrano, California. They lived a full life of love, family and friends.

Don retired early to get the most out of his life with Sami. When Sami fell ill, Don stayed by her side, providing care at home until her passing in 2014. They had been married for 47 years.

As Sami told him to get a dog when she passed, that he did. A Great Dane, Lola, whom he proudly showed off around town. They made lots of new friends together, both human and canine, and set a path for the future.

Don was known for his epic, humorous t-shirt collection. “One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor” was a favorite at local pubs. “Join me in the Christmas tree dance. Shake all your limbs till your balls fall off” was a hit with family at Christmas. “My Indian name is Runs With Beer” had a wait list at Thanksgiving.

Don, until the very end, made light of everything with a joke. He spread joy with his sense of humor in the local community, and was a favorite with his hospice team, calling him “their buddy”. He was honorable, full of integrity, fiercely determined, and always up for an adventure.

He will be missed terribly. Not a religious man, he would ask that you, this evening, enjoy some cheese + crackers, pour yourself a drink and raise a toast to him, for a life well lived. Wherever he is, he will surely smile and raise his glass as well.

Please share memories at SimplyCremationOnline.com.