Cherished Local Figure Don Cruikshank

The community mourns the loss of Don Cruikshank, a cherished figure renowned as a business luminary and advocate in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Rooted in the area since his family’s arrival in 1957 when he was just four, Cruikshank attended local schools and graduated from Alemany High School in 1971. After his tenure at College of the Canyons, he served as an EMT for eight years while also engaging in the aircraft industry.
In 1978, together with Mike Redmond, he took charge of the equipment division of All Valley Rental Center, birthing AV Equipment Rentals.
Regrettably, in November, Cruikshank passed away due to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that resonates profoundly within the community. His daughter, Stacie House, eloquently expressed, “The loss of Dad feels like an immense void. He was a beacon of joy, brightening every corner he touched. Remembering the radiance he brought into our lives and others’ reassures us that his legacy of spreading happiness will endure eternally in our memories.”
While steering his enterprise, Don prioritized his children and later, his grandchildren. Stacie reminisced, “Despite his demanding business and philanthropic pursuits, family always reigned supreme for our father. Not a single milestone or game of ours lacked his presence; he even stepped in as a coach. He extended that same unwavering support to his grandchildren, fervently championing their endeavors at Valencia High School.”
As his children matured, they cherished the invaluable lessons their father imparted, not solely about family leadership but also about steering a successful business. Rob Cruikshank, Don’s son, reflected, “My father was my guiding light. He stood tall in our community, led our family, and epitomized what it truly means to be an exceptional partner, parent, grandparent, confidant, and community pillar. His teachings on life, business, authenticity, and integrity are timeless. His counsel and wisdom will forever illuminate my path.”
Denise, Cruikshank’s wife, expressed gratitude for the life they crafted together, underscoring Don’s unwavering dedication to their family. “Family was paramount to Don. He was an exceptional husband, father, and grandparent. Love and family were the cornerstones of our existence, and his absence has left an irreplaceable void. I hope we can carry forth his legacy for our children and grandchildren, whom he held in the highest esteem. He was incredibly proud of them,” Denise shared.
Senator Scott Wilk acknowledged Don’s compassion during trying times, recalling an instance where Cruikshank supported an elderly disabled veteran during a power outage, exemplifying his benevolence.
The departure of Don Cruikshank is mourned not just by his family but by the many who admired him in the Santa Clarita Valley. Kris Hough, a field representative for Wilk, remarked, “He was a truly exceptional individual – someone you could count on, day or night. His absence will be deeply felt by many, and I will miss him dearly.”
In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the Cruikshank family urges donations to the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation in honor of Don, contributing to ongoing cardiovascular care in his memory. Visit henrymayogiving.com, choose the Roberta G. Veloz Cardiovascular Center Fund, and dedicate the gift to Don Cruikshank’s memory. 

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