Don Conlon was born on October 19, 1936 in Kenora Ontario and passed away on January 13, 2021 in Calgary Alberta.
He was predeceased by Valentine Marie (Kapush) in 1987 and Margaret Rose (Opitz) in 2017, parents Arthur and Simone Conlon, and sister Shirley Strain. Don is survived by sons Kevin (Carmel) and Kelly (Laurie), brother Allan (Evelyn), in-laws Patricia and Lloyd Bisson, and Ivan Kapush, as well as many extended family and friends.
Dad was employed by CP Rail for over 35 years, retiring in 1991. He joined the railway in 1955 in Kenora Ontario, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who were also employed by the CPR. He met our mother in Kenora where she had just begun her career as an elementary school teacher. They were married in 1963 and relocated to Winnipeg shortly after. Dad and Mom spent many happy years raising us and building their lives together in Winnipeg.
Dad met his second wife Margaret in 2000. They were married shortly after, and spent many years travelling (almost always by bus – Dad hated air travel). Margaret was his partner in crime, kept him on his toes, and lovingly cared for him until her passing. In 2018 Dad realized that living alone in Winnipeg was becoming too great a challenge for him and he relocated to Calgary. As his health deteriorated he fought through the challenges that were thrown at him with great determination.
Dad’s favourite past time was his Friday night bowling league at the German Club in the North End of Winnipeg. The friendships made during his many years of bowling lasted a lifetime. Dad’s most significant achievement in life was providing a stable loving home for our mother and us. Through his example we learned the value of hard work, determination and perseverance. We will be forever grateful for the opportunities life provided us as a result of his hard work and sacrifices.
In keeping with Dad’s wishes there will be no funeral service. Dad will be interred with our mother in Winnipeg at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Diabetes Association.
Many thanks to the dedicated staff of Dad’s Long term care homes in Calgary – Agecare Glenmore and Bethany Riverview. Also thanks to Dad’s family physician of over 40 years, Dr. D. Caners.
7 Comments
CARMEL and KEVIN – we are so sorry for your loss – sending prayers love and white light
Kelly and Kevin I was so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Please accept my condolences.
KEVIN AND KELLY… A life time together is never enough; we reflect the best parts of our parents thanks to the loving way they raised us. Deepest condolences for your loss. Wishing you peace and comfort…with love,
Kevin & Carmel and Kelly & Laurie, Even as you are grieving the loss of your Dad, may you draw comfort & strength from the love of family & friends. He will not be forgotten.
Hi Kevin and Kelly. The photo of your dad made me smile. I have so many great memories of your summer holidays spent at the farm, and visits out to Winnipeg. Auntie Vallie and Uncle Don are both fond memories for me as they were always kind and a pleasure to be with. We are all thinking of you, and wishing you good memories. Your dad was well loved and very proud of you both. That is a beautiful life……he lived well. Hoping with retirement, and the end of Covid, to be able to catch up with you both. Hugs to Kevin & Carmel and Kelly & Laurie from all of us……Deb, Jim, and Ike. OOO
Kevin & Carmel Kelly & Laurie So sorry to hear of your fathers passing. I have many fond memories of your visits to Thunder Bay when I was growing up. Always looked forward to sharing time with you during summer holidays.
I remember Uncle Don as being kind and friendly. Sending my condolences, take care, stay safe…Patrick
IVAN KAPUSH February 4, 2021
Kevin & Kelly, We are very sorry to learn of the recent passing of your father and want you to know we are thinking of you. We share in your sadness and will always remember Don, proud father and a very friendly person. Sending deepest condolences, Ivan and Clara