Darrell Douglas Lawhon, 80 yrs old, Ojai, California, passed away on August 1, 2022. Darrell was born in Shasta California in 1942 to Edith and Sidney Lawhon. He went to Ventura High. Darrell served in the Army and then had a career as a Heavy Equipment Operator with Reed & Lang / Reed Land Clearing. He could work his bulldozer like magic! He was mentioned in many news articles for his demolition skills and acknowledged in a GETTY Image for the demolition of the Masonic historic building after the Northridge earthquake in 1994. He loved to hunt, ride his Harley, water skiing/camping trips, BBQ with friends and family. He had a witty sense of humor and enjoyed pulling pranks. He had many legendary shenanigans which were all grandchild tested and approved. Most of the time he could be found working in his garage repairing anything broken. Darrell enjoyed making metal sculptures and artwork which he generously shared. He was considered the “Mayor of the River Bottom” by his neighbors. He was a man with a big heart and always ready to help anyone in need.
Darrell is survived by his wife, Joan “Cookie” Lawhon, daughters Samantha Lawhon, Rhonda Evans (Keith Evans), sons Tony Emard (Kim Emard), Erin Emard (Lisa Emard), sister Carlene “Kelly” Riddle (William “Bill” Riddle), Cousin Dinah Daane (John Daane), 8 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
The Family wishes to extend their gratitude to Mountain Vista Manor in Ojai for giving Darrell such loving care in his final days. ~
Darrell was a beloved son, brother, cousin, husband, father, uncle, grandfather and friend. His generous heart and Big Blue eyes will be forever and always be missed. He is preceded in death by his Mother Edith, Father Sidney and Brother Steve Lawhon.
Arrangements are under the direction of JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.