Don has passed away surrounded by his loving family, after a brave fight with cancer.
Don/Dad/Papa is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Gloria, his brother, Ron, sister, Frances Hudock, his 3 children Clint (Linda), Terry (Guy) Philp, Greg (Patty), his 8 grandchildren Emily (Nathan), Paula (Jordan), Joe, Neil, Kali, Sophie, Sage and Austin, and 3 great grandchildren, McKinleigh, Grae and Von. He will also be missed by countless friends and relatives.
Don was born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan, son of Arnold and Hattie. The family moved to Campbell River in 1943 and settled in Willow Point. In 1951, Don was drafted to play professional baseball in the USA where he played until 1956, returning home because he missed Vancouver Island so much. A few years later, he and his father purchased C.R.E.S., working there until the early 80's when he sold it and bought the Dolphins Resort with his son.
Don was a sports fanatic, taking part in, and watching as many as he could... hockey, golf, curling, skiing, fastball, swimming, racquetball, tennis and coaching. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved the outdoors. He loved to travel and spent most winters in his second home, Hawaii.
Don was known as an amazing host with a contagious smile, mischievous twinkle in his eye and great sense of humour. Always up for adventure and fun, he lived life to the fullest and encouraged those around him to do the same.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Nelson, Maggie Hanna and the nurses at the hospital as well as the amazing staff involved in his hospice care.
A celebration of Don's life will take place on Friday, February 1st at 1 pm at the Quinsam Hall, 761 Nursery Rd.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Campbell River Hospice Society.
Service Details
1:00 PM