Don passed suddenly from a heart attack on Monday, March 23, 2020 at the age of 72 years. He grew up in Drinkwater, Saskatchewan, the eldest son of Dick and Gwen, and big brother to Wanda and Gord. On the family farm, Don learned the value of hard work and began his love of animals, caring for his special horse, “Lady” until he struck out West as a young man. In Vancouver, British Columbia, he lived with his Auntie Anne and Uncle Mel, who he looked up to as a father, and began his career in construction. Eventually, he met the love of his life, Diane and they moved to Red Deer, Alberta to start a family. Together they built a life he loved; including his two cherished children, Ashley and Carson.

Arrangements in care of:

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer),

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

The Pines Community Association, Gaetz United Church and Cub Scouts were just a few organizations that Don devoted himself to and he loved supporting the LTCHS Raider girls, long after his own had graduated. He was generous and helpful, knowing from his childhood that neighbours take care of each other. A true Saskatchewan farm boy, he was a diehard Roughriders fan who always stayed in touch with his friends and family back home. He relished the simple pleasures like puttering in the garden, or tinkering in the garage; and took joy in watching his nieces and nephews grow to have families of their own. Don lived his wildest childhood dreams by travelling the world – from Disneyland to Down Under, the Maritimes, across to the UK. He was known as Baloo, Pines Patrolman, Big Friendly Giant, Dutch, Uncle Donny and Pops, and of course, Chrome Dome.

More than anything, Don loved his family and he will be forever missed by everyone he leaves behind. Until we can safely congregate, the family asks that if you wish to honour Donny, please light a candle in your window at sunset on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 and savour a slice of your favourite pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, to come together in gratitude and remembrance.

• Date : 2020-04-02
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com