Byron Doneza

Byron Norman Doneza, 68 years of age, passed and left this earth silently and peacefully in his home in Sacramento California on Friday October 1, 2021. Byron was born on December 21, 1952 in Honolulu, Hawaii. As young child, Byron and his many siblings and large bonded family, traveled to the mainland where they grew up and made a life and place for themselves in San Francisco, California. Those closest to Byron and who knew him best, knew his greatest attribute was his kind and generous heart. He was a giver; a giver of love, a giver of guidance and positive influence, and a giver of his time. He was a generous giver in every sense. His interest in martial arts and the lessons gleaned taught Byron the importance of peace over aggression. Because of this, Byron avoided conflict, and used his storytelling to bring family and friends, and those he loved most, together. Not only was Byron a compassionate and generous man, but he was also a creative being. His creative and artistic mind and many talents colored the world with uplifting and hopeful beauty. The uplifting quality of his creative art was always offered to his children every holiday where he would make handmade decorations, paint the walls and windows, and make something old become something new and magical. But the most meaningful gift Byron offered the world was his family, and the love he had for them, this was his legacy. His love offered his family a sense of safety, comfort, and space to grow into whoever they want to become. Byron passed through this world and onto the next, leaving many to cherish his loving memory. He leaves an ex-wife, yet a lifelong partner, co-parent, best friend, and deeply bonded companion, Teri-Jo Bergum. Byron also leaves all too soon, many adult children (Cassie, Mary, Kristy, Charles, Dana, Jessica, and Adriene). Byron's daughters, Jessica and Dana Doneza, will carry his memories forward and onto Byron's grandchildren. Byron's four grandsons love their grandfather dearly. Byron had the privilege of meeting them, loving them, guiding them, and passed down many of his wonderful gifts and talents. We miss you. You were taken too soon, but perhaps it was time, perhaps you have work to do on the other side.