What I like most about writing this column is the characters who live right here in Pacific Beach. No one stands out more than longtime resident and consummate “Mr. Nice Guy,” Donald Alan Redfern. I met Don, who owns Capital Business & Tax Service, located at 4780 Mission Blvd., back in January 1988. I was waiting tables at the Boathouse Restaurant, where Joe’s Crab Shack sits today. Don was highly recommended by a co-worker who had used Don’s income-tax preparation services. It’s tax time again, and Don eagerly greets the season. Don was born in Nebraska and grew up in Iowa. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo brought him out to California in the early 1960s to study accounting. By 1965, Pacific Beach was calling, so Don, who met soon-to-be-wife Judy at Knott’s Berry Farm, arrived here as a young couple. They started a family and Don settled in to begin taking advantage of his skills. He soon realized there were tremendous opportunities here. He originally had a partnership in the late 1960s with an emphasis on real estate acquisitions and business and tax service. But Don branched out on his own and never looked back. Don is an individual who has accomplished everything within the scope of his many business ventures. Including his real estate holdings, he also has a host of degrees and certification plaques adorning the walls of his offices. Don’s business is very family-oriented. Judy is his secretary. Jessica Constant, one of his accountants, is like a daughter to them, as well as Alani Cullen, a friendly seasonal employee. When you visit his office on Mission Boulevard, you have a cozy, home-like feeling. Don is an engaging and kind gentleman. He’s very animated and gregarious and loves getting to know his clients. He also loves dogs. When I knew him back in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Don and Judy had Yorkies. Today, they have a Chihuahua named “Romeo” and a mini Doberman named “Snooks,” who together take center stage at the business office. I was surprised when I ran into him a few weeks back to see he is still in the area. But obviously, the business is thriving. I hadn’t seen him since the mid-1990s when I left the restaurant business. I would have thought he had retired years ago, but Don is very proactive and isn’t one to rest on his laurels. I would highly recommend his business and tax services. After 45 years and counting, he must be doing something right. In his spare time, Don enjoys traveling, vintage cars and just being a big kid. He loves what he does and where he lives. Don is just another great example of the wonderful people who make a wonderful addition our beautiful seaside town, our beloved Pacific Beach. — Kevin Di Cicco is the owner of Buddy the dog, who is best known for his roles in the long string of “Air Bud” movies and his ball-playing skills showcased on popular television shows. For booking inquiries, contact www.airbud.com.
