And now the end is here, and Don faced the final curtain. "To my friends and family, I'll say it clear. I'm stating my case, of which I'm certain. I've lived a life that's full. I've traveled each and every highway, and more, much more than this, I did it my way." Don loved and he laughed, until he passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, at the Port Colborne Hospital, at the age of 83. He will be forever loved and missed by his Babes "Babeski", Pauline. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews and extended family in Canada and the United States. Don was predeceased by his parents Genevieve and John, also by his brothers: William, Gerry, Robert "Bob", and sister Jean Marie.
Though, many would know Don to be a quiet man, he was a fun person to be around. As a young kid, he enjoyed and excelled at playing football and softball in the Sault. As a young man, he went to College in Michigan for Mining and Technology, where he earned a degree in Chemical Engineering, which later prepared him for his 25 year career working at Algoma Steel. Don retired in 1982 and with his Babes by his side, they moved to Kelowna, BC to pursue a franchise business adventure. Pauline and Don lived an active life together. They spent many years at Hubbard Lake, exploring outdoor activities like; snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, boating on St. Joseph’s Island with “The Orange Blossom” (his boat), and most importantly spending quality time together. From 1985 to 1998, Pauline and Don became resident managers at various luxury condos in Toronto and Oakville. After retiring from their superintendent duties, they briefly moved to London for three years, then finally settled at the Black Creek Retirement Community in Niagara.
Don was an avid golfer, and some of his favourite lifetime highlights was when he got to attend the Masters Tournament in Augusta, on a couple of occasions. He enjoyed bowling and playing snooker with the guys at the club house, and always would be found cheering on his favourite sport teams; University of Michigan Wolverines and the Toronto Maple Leafs. In his retirement, his all-time greatest passion was to support and attend the Greater Hamilton Fastball League, to watch baseball games with his Babeski.
When Don was at home, he would read and do crossword puzzles (which were done by the hour, and the harder the better!) Right to the very end, his mind was sharp, and he had a vocabulary that you would not believe! He was also very proud of Pauline’s gardening creations at home, even though he would jokingly take credit for her creative work and green thumb! Don will be forever remembered and missed by his friends, family, and more than ever by his wife Pauline.
A special thank you to all of Don's doctors, nurses, caregivers, especially to our family physician, Dr. Kim Scher, and the nurses on the 2nd Floor at the Port Colborne Hospital, for providing compassionate care, kindness and support to both Don and Pauline.
In accordance with Don's wishes, a private gathering was held, and cremation will take place. A Celebration of Don's Life will take place at a later time. In memory of Don, memorial donations may be given to, Mark Preece House (for Home Health Care, 191 Barton Street East, Hamilton), Douglas Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, or to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared on Don's tribute page found at EssentialsNiagara.com
“To think I did all that, and may I say, not in a shy way… Oh, no, no not me, I did it my way" - Frank Sinatra (and Don too!)