July 13, 1934 - December 5, 2022
In loving memory ~
Don passed away peacefully with family at his side Monday, December 5th. He was 88 years old and lived every day of his life to the fullest.
Don was born July 13th, 1934, in Muenster, Saskatchewan, to Bernard and Bertha Loehr. He grew up on the family farm, with his 4 sisters, leaving to attend the University of Saskatchewan where he obtained a Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Don left Saskatchewan and moved to British Columbia in 1963 to work for MacMillan Bloedel Forest Company.
He met his wife Bonnie in Nanaimo where they were married on August 15th, 1964. They settled in Departure Bay to raise their family and still resided in the same home.
Don had a love of the outdoors, which he passed down to his children, always taking them boating, camping, skiing, walking, exploring, and encouraging them to try all sports. He was often coaching their teams and always supporting their endeavours. Don loved to travel, and he and Bonnie shared many wonderful trips around the world as well as visiting family in Saskatchewan as often as possible.
Don was an incredibly kind, compassionate, friendly man and could not walk down a street in Nanaimo without bumping into a friend to share a quick hello and chat.
He had a quick wit, a great sense of humour, and incredible intelligence and always saw the best in every situation and person.
Don left Harmac in 1974 and opened his industrial contracting firm, Interkraft Contracting. His work ethic was second to none and he brought out the best in his employees, many of whom stayed for years and became great friends.
Don was an extremely proud and present grandfather (Pa) who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, all of them consider him a best friend and could always count on him for anything needed.
He was an amazing husband, and father, making everyone feel loved and important. He always had a tear in his eye and a hug upon goodbye, even if you would see him tomorrow. He will be sadly missed by his wife Bonnie, and his children Lisa (Steve), Susan (Marc), and John. His grandchildren, Joshua, Kyle, Maxwell, Jacob, Delaney and Hayley and great-grandson Syd. He had a large extended family in Saskatchewan that will miss him dearly including his 4 sisters, Elaine, Evelyn, Yvonne, and Kathleen.
One of Don's favourite things was to gather around a table with his loved ones and share a meal, story, and love. In lieu of flowers, please support a local restaurant with your loved ones, share a meal, laugh, and make memories.
Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. ~ Dr. Suess