October 19, 1931 - April 16, 2020
Our dear Dad, Ampa (grandfather, great-grandfather), uncle, and friend to many passed away at age 88 in Vernon, after a valiant battle with cancer. While he left behind a huge hole in our family there is also a lifetime full of memories for us to treasure.
Don was predeceased by his two brothers Hugh and John Grant, as well his parents Arthur and Ethel Grant of Courtenay, B.C. Don was born and went to school in the Comox Valley where he met and married (July 2, 1955) the love of his life Shirley Grant (Banks). His youth was filled with helping out on the 'farm', playing basketball, fishing with his buddies, and enjoying the outdoors.
Upon graduating from UBC in 1955, Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical), Don worked for Crown Zellerbach and their successors until his retirement. His career that began in the pulp mills at Elk Falls (Campbell River), continued in Westbank, Lumby, culminated as plant manager of the plywood and sawmill operations in Armstrong, B.C.
When not casting a line into the rivers or streams, camping and exploring with family and friends, Don also enjoyed playing bridge, gardening, tying fishing flies, reading, watching a good western, and tackling any 'repair' job that needed doing. No job was too big or too small - Dad spent over a decade building a beautiful home for his family while working full time. Volunteering as a Scout Leader, District Commission (Campbell River), environmental advocate for Strathcona Park, Vernon Rotary, Director John Howard Society, School Board Trustee (Vernon) as well as Sandpiper Strata Council President are a few of Don's community involvements.
Don is dearly missed by his children, Ellie (Kevin) of Courtenay, Lona (Arthur) of Kamloops, Robb (Marianne) of Vernon, grandchildren: Lesley, Ross, Brie, Russell, David, Duncan, Laura, great-grandchildren: Owen, Noemie, Aidan, and many nieces and nephews.
Don was a warm family man whose ready smile and positive outlook endeared him to us all. Dad and Mom made many dear lifelong friends through work, dancing, drama, community activities as well as their travels to warmer climates.
We look forward to planning a celebration of Don's wonderful, long life at a later date, once we can again gather to honour this special person.