Donald M. Johnson
March 16, 1922 -
May 2, 2008
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father and family member Donald Johnson. Predeceased by his loving wife Eileen (Nesting) in 1980. Survived by sons, Murray (Joanne) of Campbell River, B.C., Gary (Maureen) of Vernon, B.C. Keith (Gerri) of Surrey, B.C. and daughter, Janet (Roger) Sween of Red Deer, Alta. Also survived by grandchildren Christie, David, Tamara (Matt), Brandi, Chelsea, Gordon, Pamela and Orion. Also survived by two great-grandchildren Jordynn and Kennedy.
Born in Winnipeg in 1922, Don resided there until his enlistment with the RCAF in 1944. He was trained as a wireless radio operator and was stationed in England during the latter part of the war with 436 Squadron (Transport) and served there with distinction until 1946. On returning home Don and his entire family moved to White Rock to continue the family business. Don along with his father and brother helped shape an early White Rock through their construction and development company. While in White Rock, Don was a founding member of the White Rock Players Club where he practiced his gift of performing. As a troupe they garnered many awards with Don winning a best actor award in a national competition held at Halifax in 1959. He was one of the original ten investors that procured a mortgage for the purchase of White Rock's Little Theatre which is still entertaining people to this day. During all of this Don found the time to earn his pilot's license and pursue his love of flying. He was a very active recreational pilot and owned and operated a number of different aircraft over the years. Don was also a member of the White Rock Lions Club and had a perfect attendance record for over twenty years. He held the post of president for two terms. Don in the mid 1960's spearheaded a project to build a house for auction with Lions Club members to raise money for charity. Don was also an avid golfer with a single digit handicap and was a longtime member of the Hazelmere Golf Club. After the loss of his wife Eileen in 1980, Don retired to Osoyoos B.C. where he continued his passion for golf. There he was also a member of a barbershop quartet and made many friends. In 2005 he moved to Vernon to be closer to family and was very happy and content. Don will be sorely missed by all who knew him and especially by his family. He was a great man, an equally great father and well respected by all who knew him.
Many thanks to his caregivers at Noric house in Vernon who Don loved and to the staff of Kelowna General where he passed away. All your help and kindness was very much appreciated.
No service to be held at Don's request. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.