Donald “Don” Merritt Desfor, a 20-year resident of Malibu, was born on July 5, 1927, to Jeanette and Irving Desfor of Queens, N.Y. His passions throughout his life included a wide array of interests, but none surpassed his love of tennis, magic and photography.
“Each and every aspect of his life was infused with his sharp wit and unique sense of humor,” a loved one shared.
As a teen, Don began performing magic with his father. He innovated silk handkerchief juggling and became a lifetime member of Hollywood’s famed Magic Castle. Don continued to delight his friends, family and more than a few strangers with his always clever and humorous magic tricks. In the past 20 years, he was known among his friends as “The Magic Man” or “The Don.”
After serving in the Coast Guard, Don graduated from USC with a degree in journalism. He has been a life-long USC fan. He joined the faculty at Cerritos College at its inception. Over the years, Don inspired his students while working to develop curricula and promote the athletic programs. He continued his own education, earning a master’s degree, then a Ph.D. on visual perception and the use of photographs in therapy.
Don went on photojournalist assignments around the world. Perhaps the most personally inspiring was a visit to Dr. Albert Schweitzer in his jungle hospital in Lambarene, Gabon, Africa. A collection of Don’s photographs from this experience is on display at Chapman University.
An avid tennis player and fan, Don worked with Larry King and Billie Jean King to direct early professional women’s tennis tournaments. Don could be found on the tennis courts of Malibu Racquet Club shortly before his death.
In his last month of life, Don suffered from pancreatic cancer. He continued to make jokes with, perform magic for and express appreciation and love to his family, his doctors and huge community of friends.
Don is survived by his wife of 20 years, Sue-Carol Desfor; four children; two stepchildren; 16 grandchildren; and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network can be made at pancan.org.