In Loving Memory of Don MacKenzie
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Don MacKenzie on October 16th 2022 at the age of 75 with his family by his side.
Don is survived by his wife Leanne Chabot, daughter Tanya (Ross) Presta, son Donnie MacKenzie of Calgary, grandson Tristan MacKenzie of Calgary, siblings Ronnie (Sheila) MacKenzie of Nova Scotia, Linda Deale of Nova Scotia, Barbie MacKenzie of Nova Scotia, Eileen Myers of Nova Scotia, Donna (Paul) Elliott of Nova Scotia, Carol (Rob) Vatcher of New Brunswick, sister in-law Mary MacKenzie of Nova Scotia and many, many nieces and nephews.
Don was predeceased by his parents, Owen and Florence MacKenzie, three brothers, Ivan, Kenny and Ross MacKenzie and two granddaughters Baylie and Isabella Presta.
Don was born in Meaghers Grant County, Nova Scotia on December 11th 1946, he was the fifth out of ten children. Don had a dream to come west from Nova Scotia in his early teens which became a reality in his late teens. On his initial journey throughout BC he fell in love with Kamloops and decided that’s where he eventually wanted to throw down roots.
After his initial tour of the west, he returned to Nova Scotia, working at various places, when he was reunited with his high school sweetheart Brenda Conrad. They were married in 1968 in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and in 1969 Don made his dream come true and moved to Kamloops BC to start his new life.
Don worked a few jobs in Kamloops through the earlier years finally finding his place in the construction trade. Don worked in construction as a labourer and site foreman until he decided to start his own construction contracting company in the mid 1980’s, which he worked at until he retired in 2019 at the age of 73.
Throughout his life Don enjoyed many hobbies including: fishing, hunting, camping, quadding and gardening to name a few. Don loved having his family around and loved to make everyone laugh with his unforgettable stories and his larger than life sense of humour, quick wit and constant comical tormenting of his family and friends.
Don was also very caring and kind and always made himself available to lend a helping hand or hand up to anyone who needed it.
Don will be loved and never forgotten by the people whose lives he was fortunate enough to touch.
Memorial donation can be made in his name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
If you knew Don and he touched your life in some way, please join us to remember him in the Kamloops Funeral Chapel, 285 Fortune Drive on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at 11am with Pastor Don Maione Officiating.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
250-554-2577
10 Tributes
We are so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was always a good friend and we enjoyed his friendship for years. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
How does anyone say enough about this larger than life sweetheart giant, of a man? My partner, Dave, and myself will remember him for the rest of our lives. Loving, sensitive, kind and funny, Don will live in our hearts always.
Hello Tanya and Donnie, I am sadden to hear of the passing of your dad my (uncle). I remember your dad making fun of me as to how short I was compared to him. I never grew very tall (4’11) to his over (6 feet and over tall), he was such a fun man from what I go to know him. He was such a great guy when I was younger and he lived in Nova Scotia. May he Rest In Peace. Keeping you all in prayer as you go through this difficult time.
Had it all printed out and it went away Try number 2. So sorry to hear about you loss.Linda and family ,I didn’t know Donnie but I am sure he was an out going person like everyone in your large family.Keep his memories in your hearts and retell all his best stories.
Leanne & family, our thoughts & prayers are with you at this time. May you find comfort in the many memories you created together.
Truly sorry for your loss Leanne! I’d only met Don that one time at your place, but felt as though we might as well have been best friends for my whole life- I remember him well, and regret that it was to be the only time we’d met.
thanks to both of you
thanks Pat! Don felt the same way.
Leanne and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of “Mack” after and incredibly tough journey. We met Mack only a few times, but really connected and we looking forward to some new travel adventures. May you find strength in knowing that he can now forever rest in peace and was a great man. We are very fortunate to have had him in our lives. All our Love.
Hello. I would like to say how sorry I am to hear Donnie had passed. I will never forget the summers I spent in the grant. I can remember one time Donnie was looking after me and Ronnie and we were supposed to stay in the yard which we did not. When Donnie found out he was going to whip us but although he was older and bigger, he could not catch me. He chased me for about 2 miles and than gave up. I I lost touch with Donnie when he moved out west , but never forgot about the early days. He had a heart of gold. I’m sure you have many memories to hang on too. Sorry I can not be there for you all, but please know I’m thinking of you all. I know we have never met but if you are ever in Florida my door will always be open. Cousin Jackie Mackenzie