Skip to content

May 20, 1933 - Oct 20, 2017
A wonderful man and great story teller was lost with the passing of Don Lee October 20, 2017. Don is predeceased by his parents Jack and Gladys Lee and brothers Robert and Gordon.

Left to mourn are his loving wife of nearly 57 years, Patricia; children Cathy (Mike), grandchildren Andrew, Vickie and Erik; Craig (Moira), grandchildren Brianne and Madison; great-grandchildren Dean and Zach. Sisters Audrey (Roy), Gail and Jacquie, sister-in-law Janet and many nephews and nieces, friends old and new, relatives near and far.

Don was born May 20, 1933 in Powell River, BC. The oldest of six children, he would tell of his escapades with his brothers and watching the town grow. He moved to Campbell River in 1952 where he met and married Patricia in 1960.

Don worked at the Elk Falls mill as a paper-machine mill-wright for over 40 years and was an honorary volunteer fireman and ambulance support in various ways for almost as many. Don always enjoyed the great outdoors whether it was hunting with his dad, fishing trips with his friends or camping with Patricia and family.

He was especially fond of the camping trips he and Patricia took in their later years to various spots and the cruises and world-trips that they enjoyed with his family and friends. Don was exceptionally good with his hands, whether it was in the garden or in the shop on one of his many woodworking projects. He always had an idea and if he didn't have the tool to do it, he'd figure out how to make it work, always with an eye for detail.

An avid gardener, he was planning next year's crop up until his passing. Don was very involved with his children, supporting them by coaching softball, helping judge competitive swim meets, being involved with Scouting and chaperoning various activities.

Above all else, Don enjoyed people; no matter whether he had just met you or you had been friends for years, he would always strike up a conversation that made you feel special. Don was able to convey his enthusiasm and joy of life so well that you didn't even need to speak the same language, he'd still be able to make you smile and have a laugh.

Family and family gatherings provided treasured memories. Things such as the family getting together for holidays, having Chinese food for New Years day dinner, playing cards and building rock walls at the cabin on Buttle Lake will be remembered by all.

There were many adventures and even more great memories. Of late were his granddaughter Vickie's arrival from Scotland for a visit and to give a helping hand. The other was his last boating excursion to his old fishing holes and past his beloved former Race Point home with Madison, Craig and family friend Glenn Redding. Don appreciated the planning and extra effort that went into this and loved the day.

After being diagnosed, Don became a member of West Coast Prostrate Cancer Support group which provided companionship over the years. In the end, he succumbed to the effect of many cancers.

Family members are grateful to Dr. Meckin, Dr. Ramsey as well as nurses and staff at Campbell River hospitals, old and new. Special thanks to cancer and palliative care units who treated Don with care and compassion.

A Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.

If so wished, donations in Don's name can be made towards PET scan equipment at Victoria Cancer Center or a charity of your choice.



Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.