Donald Jeffery Hidalgo

Donald “Jeff” Hidalgo, 74, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away from natural causes on September 13, 2026, at his home.

Jeff was born January 31, 1952, in Tucson to Johnny and Catherine Hidalgo and was raised in Willcox, Arizona. The youngest of five children, he grew up on the family ranch, where he developed the values and work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life, along with a love of horses and the cowboy way of life. He graduated from Willcox High School in 1970.Jeff carried that work ethic into a career in land surveying spanning more than 40 years. As a Survey Chief with Rick Engineering, he became a well-respected and trusted leader in Southern Arizona’s surveying and construction community. 

In 1987, Jeff married Mary Hidalgo. Together they raised their sons, Shane and Dylan, while Jeff remained a devoted father to his older son, Jerret. Jeff and Mary shared more than 30 years of marriage and remained an important part of one another’s lives even after separating. Jeff was remarkably humble, warm and understated. He had an easy smile, unmistakable dimples, a hearty laugh and an undeniable charm. He loved deeply and unconditionally and never needed recognition for it. Showing up for the people he loved was enough. Jeff loved horses, roping and riding, cowboy hats and boots, campfires, annual “pig hunt” trips, Dallas Cowboys football and University of Arizona sports. In his later years, he appreciated simpler pleasures: his favorite television shows and westerns, a ball game on TV and a few naps in his recliner. 

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny and Catherine; siblings Brenda and Michael; and granddaughter Madison. He is survived by Mary; sons Jerret, Shane and Dylan (Bree); grandchildren Baylor, Jack and Millie; great-grandson Mason Heap; siblings Linda and Johnny (Francie); sister-in-law Porrie; and many extended family members. He also shared a special bond with the Blankinship Family in Tucson, particularly his best friend, Paul. 

Those who knew Jeff will remember a good man. A humble man. A man who loved unconditionally. A man who showed up. We’re all better for knowing him.