Don, the oldest of four children, grew up on his parent’s orange orchard in Ventura County, California. Having learned to drive a tractor at 10 and a truck at 12, Don became his dad’s ‘right hand man’ in caring for the orange trees and their assortment of farm animals.

Although geology was his major at the University of California, when he applied for a summer job at North American Aviation, he was hired as an engineer. After three years of active duty with the Marines, he returned to North American Aviation and began an assignment in engineering management that lasted for the next 36 years. Don was instrumental in designing and producing the second stage boosters for the Apollo spacecrafts. His technical support for all the Apollo launches allowed twelve United States astronauts to walk on the moon and return safely.

After traveling extensively in the US and foreign countries, Don is enjoying his retirement years in Colorado with his wife, Peggy Reed, owner of the award-winning hidden door bookcase company, HiddenDoorsByDesign, LLC.

By combining nature’s finest domestic and exotic woods with premium quality stainless steel, Don creates beautiful one-of-a-kind gifts. Don hopes that you will enjoy his creations as much as he enjoys crafting them for you.