Donald died suddenly, but peacefully on April 14, 2010 at the 100 Mile and District Hospital with family at his side. Don was born in 1922 in Toronto, Ontario, the eldest of two boys born to William and Mary Mitchell. He married Jean Ruby Barrett on Sept. 25, 1944. Don served with the 48th Highlanders in the 2nd World War. Don is survived by his ever loving wife Jean, their daughters Diane (Mike), Darlene (Monty) and Debbie, his seven grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Don was predeceased by his son Brian. Don and Jean moved with the family from Toronto to North Vancouver in 1950 and he became an iron worker. On his second day of working to build the Second Narrows Bridge (Iron Workers Memorial) in North Vancouver, it collapsed and went down. After a time of recuperation he decided to open his own business with Jean. From 1964-1972 they owned and operated the “Hobby-craft Center” on Lonsdale Avenue. During this time Don started the first North Shore Coin Club, as collecting coins had been his true hobby for years. After selling the Hobby store he and Jean opened the Coin & Stamp Centers in the Sears stores and ran them until their retirement in 1984, at which time they moved to the Cariboo to retire at their daughter Darlene and husband Monty’s ranch. At Don’s request, cremation and interment arrangements have been made. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in his memory to the Canadian Diabetes Association. Don was dearly loved and will be sadly missed by his wife and family.
100 Mile Funeral Service Ltd. entrusted
with the arrangements. 250-395-3243
Condolences can be sent to the family at www.100milefuneralservice.com