June 4th – It is with great sadness that the family of renown winegrower, community leader and champion of regional water interests, Donald D. Galleano, announces his passing on June 2, 2021.
Mr. Galleano was President of the Historic Cantu-Galleano Ranch in Mira Loma, California, a fifth-generation winery founded in 1927. Galleano is the oldest Prohibition-era winery in the Cucamonga Valley still owned by the family and operating at its original location.
Mr. Galleano was devoted to his family and his community, and over the years, served in a variety of leadership positions. Since 2004, he served on the Board of Directors of the Western Municipal Water District and was Western’s sole representative on the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
Mr. Galleano served on the National Orange Show Foundation Board and the Los Angeles County Fair Association Board. He was a past president of the Western Riverside County Businessman’s Association and the Jurupa Chamber of Commerce.
The family asks for privacy during this period of mourning.
We are heartbroken to hear of Don’s passing. May God bless and comfort Charlene, the kids, and the grand babies. Sending love, hugs and prayers..
Alan and Lyn Russell
Our hearts are heavy and we will truly miss Don. Don has been a cherished friend, mentor, and colleague for many years. He was most certainly a one of a kind charmer and a big heart, selfless and kind. A true champion for the water world and an icon in the inland empire, he touched so people and so many lives. Your Western MWD family will miss you. We pray for comfort for his family and friends. It has been a pleasure serving with you Don, you will be dearly missed.
Brenda & Jaimee Dennstedt
Don will truly be missed by all of us at the Temecula Valley Wine Society. He hosted many of our events at his winery over the years, and foremost a respected giant in the wine industry. He also participated in our Riverside Internationial Wine Competition as a judge. Don’s passing is a shock, but he will be remembered fondly by many.
Sandy Brassard
Temecula Valley Wine Society.