I was born in Altadena Sept. 20, 1933. Grew up in Anaheim and in Temple City. Attended Wilson Jr. High in Pasadena from 7th – 10th grade. Went to Pasadena City College for 11th – 14th grade. Graduated with an AA from Jr. College. Got married to Blaine Ruberth, lived in West Covina. Had 4 children: Mark born in 1954, Lisa born in 1956, Darryl born in 1960 and Scott born in 1962.  I later went back to college at Calif. State University at Fullerton. Graduated in 1991 with BA in Art Education. Attended Claremont Graduate University and graduated in 1993 with MA in Education and a teaching credential for elementary school.

Worked as accountant/controller for Blaine at Calif. Artmetal from 1960 – 1976. Moved to Big Bear for 2 years in 1976. Blaine and  I separated and I moved to Huntington Beach. We divorced in 1985. Worked in various accounting jobs until I became a teacher. Taught 3rd grade in West Covina and Fountain Valley. Retired in 1999 and began Memory Joggers business. Married Art Yates in 1993, divorced in 2015.

My four grandchildren bring me so much joy. Chad Brandon Rubarth, born in 1981, Dana Michael Rubarth, born in 1982, Amber Kristine Rubarth, born in 1982, and Chase Alexander Rubarth born in 1985. I now have a great-granddaughter (Chad’s daughter) who is the love of my life, Jade Kitanya Rubarth, born in 2006. And in August 2018 I will have another great grandchild. (Dana & Sarah’s baby.)

I live in a lovely little home in Laguna Woods and love life! I now have time to enjoy writing, painting, family, friends and  travel. Check out my Spirit of Watercolor art blog here: http://donnalynyates.wordpress.com/