The family of Donald Robert Cote is saddened to announce his passing on December 25, 2023.

Don was born at home on the farm in Outram SK May 10th,1930. At age 2 they moved to a farm at Briercrest SK where he remained until he was 17. He then moved to Moose Jaw SK to finish his grade 12. After graduation Don moved to Acme AB to work for his uncle, Grant McMillan in a mechanic shop. In March of 1951 he moved to Delburne as an employee at Delburne Garage. It was there he met the love of his life, Lorna Smith and they married in 1955. Don and Lorna began farming in 1957 and farmed until the early 80’s. Don was a devoted family man and he and Lorna raised 3 daughters Mary Ann, Jan and Carol.

Don was not just devoted to his family, he was devoted to his community. If there was an organization that had committees, Don always stepped up to the plate. Don was a visionary and worked relentlessly on the Crossroad Gas Coop bringing natural gas to rural homes in and around the Delburne area. He was a long time member of the Elks Club and marching patrol; Delburne Curling Club, Community Hall, Elk Haven and the Southern Alberta Curling Association. He played, coached and umpired many innings of ball.

Curling – there was never enough curling. No storm was bad enough to keep him home. He began curling at the age of 19 by asking 3 random people to curl and he never stopped. He coached junior curlers taking them to school play downs; many of whom reached provincials. The Red Deer Farmers bonspiel was one of his favorites and he curled in the bonspiel for over 50 years. The Elks mixed nationals was one of his major wins. At age 83 he curled with his grandson at the Red Deer curling club. Don had a great sense of humor; was a kind and gentle man and an excellent mentor. He always lent a hand to those in need. He impacted many people’s lives, young and old.

Don was predeceased by his wife Lorna. He is survived by his daughter Mary Ann (Kirk), grandson Garret (Laura), great grandson Thomas, grandson Cale; Jan (Gil) grandson Josh (Chelsey) and great grandsons Theron & Warden; grandson Matt (Chrissy) and great granddaughters Hanna and Emily, Gil’s son Kyle; Carol (Brian) granddaughter Justine (Adam) great granddaughter Romee, granddaughter Megan (Bret), grandson Connor and his sister Marlene Purpur.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your local junior curling program.

• Date : 2023-12-25
• Location : Red Deer Funeral Home