In his third year of art-school, Don met and entered into a serious relationship with Julia Margaret Ann Wilson. They didn't have a lot of money, but nevertheless they were very happy together. They got married in 1954 and rented a house in Pinner, which they couldn’t really afford. In 1955, Ian Martin (Chuffy) is born, followed by Karen Frances in 1958. After the birth of their second daughter, Philippa Jane (Pippa) in 1961, the family moved to a big house on De Roos Road in Eastbourne, still close to the family in London but also near the seaside.

Julia and Don had two more children: Amanda Clare born in October 1963 and Kai Alexander born in July 1969.

In the beginning of the seventies the marriage between Don and Julia fell apart. Both parties felt that they needed a change to their lives, and they agreed to divorce. In 1973 Don met Elisabeth Clunies Ross at a party and fell in love. It was the beginning of a passionate relationship, which culminated in their marriage on July 14th 1979.

In April 1984 Don became a grandfather to Tom, the son of Chuffy and Val. Tom turned out to be the first of many grandchildren.