Don Richard Hudson Don Richard Hudson passed away peacefully, with his wife of 47 years by his side, in Meridian, Idaho on Sunday, April 25, 2021. He will be remembered as having led a life of integrity, faith, generosity, service and love throughout his 86 years of life on this earth. Don was born on March 6, 1935 to Wilhelmina Schmidt and Virgil Hudson in Manning, Iowa.

He spent his formative years in Iowa and Missouri, followed by junior high and high school in San Diego, California. Don was a graduate of San Francisco State, and earned his doctorate from the University of Utah in education leading to a meaningful career as a teacher, professor, and coach of football and swimming. Dr. Hudson served three years as the president of the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CAHPRD).

Don married Diane Manson, a widow, in 1974 and resided in the California Bay Area. They each had three children that they loved and raised together.

After 33 years of working at Cal Berkeley and California State University, Hayward, Don enjoyed his retirement in Nampa and Meridian with Diane and extended family by cultivating numerous talents: painting, woodworking, pottery, gardening, reading and writing. Don and Diane served a mission in Salt Lake City, Utah for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints during the 2002 Olympics in the family history and genealogy center.

Don is survived by his best friend, wife and soul mate, Diane, and their children: Hunter Manson (Sheri), Jeff Hudson, Leslie (Manson) Stewart (Brian), Jennifer (Hudson) Chapman (Chuck), Jennifer (Manson) Ferguson, and Jon Hudson (Yukiko). Don and Diane were additionally blessed by eleven grand and eighteen great grandchildren, deriving their greatest joy spending time with their large, extended family.

Don truly endured to the end, and has been a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has been a most exemplary example of charity and Christ-like love for all. This was always evident in his welcoming smile and big tender hugs. He will be remembered most for his incredible love for Diane and family with all his heart and soul. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The celebration of Don's life will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Birch chapel on Friday, April 30th, 2021, commencing with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. followed by his service beginning at 11:00 a.m. MST. Those who are unable to attend can join via zoom at the following link: