Donald Ira McIntosh
October 7, 2016
Died peacefully at home on Friday, October 7th, 2016 in his 92nd year. Beloved husband and best friend of Betty for 63 years. Loving father of Kathy LeBarr (Chris) of London and Robert McIntosh (April) of Scottsdale, Arizona. Fondly remembered by his sister-in-law Joy Harvey of London as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his brother Bruce Andrew McIntosh (2015) and parents Ira McIntosh (1930) and Meata (Widmeyer) McIntosh (1988). Don grew up in a single parent home in Wiarton during the Great Depression. After graduating from Stratford Normal School, he taught elementary school in North Waterloo, Preston and Hamilton. He obtained his B.A. (Western), M. Ed. (Toronto) and joined the staff of Stratford Teachers’ College (1955) where he also served as a lecturer and administrator on several Department of Education summer courses. In 1969, he was hired by the newly-formed Middlesex County Board of Education as a Superintendent of Schools, retiring in 1986. Don was a member of the Oakridge Presbyterian Church, Tecumseh Lodge AF & AM Stratford and the former Riverview Kiwanis Club. He enjoyed the solitude of reading, gardening and walking. The memorial service will be held at OAKRIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 970 Oxford Street West, London, on Friday, October 14th, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. Inurnment will be held in the Robert McIntosh family plot in Clifford Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Donald are asked to consider Mission Services of London.
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Don was a special person to now be remembered and honoured. He leaves a remarkable legacy as a masterful teacher, mentor and administrator. He had an innate ability to recognize and develop potential educational leaders. His continued interest in the accomplishments of others gave him much pleasure. "Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee." John Donne, Meditation 17 Extending deep and heartfelt sympathy to Betty, Kathy, Chris, Robert and April.
Betty, I am so sorry to hear of Don's passing. He was a special gentleman and will be long remembered by many. Doris
Our condolences from Calgary. Don inspired us with his integrity and meticulous intellect. He was a huge, positive influence on many of us in the educational community.NIGHT
To Betty - Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Don. In fondness, I remember all the happy times we shared together. Norma (Dunn) Clare Stratford/London
To the family of Don McIntosh ; Lindsay and I (Margaret) wish to send our sincere condolences to you at this sad event. Meeting Don was a great pleasure last September, which I will never forget. Margaret Munro and Lindsay Munro
Betty, Kathy and Robert - Our deepest sympathy and condolences during this difficult time. May all your wonderful memories of Don sustain you and give you comfort. Remembering the Headley Drive days when we think of you and the fun times we had with all of the neighbors. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.C
Our most sincere sympathy and condolences to Betty and family. We have wonderful memories of the first years of the newly-formed Middlesex County Board of Education and all that Don contributed. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
"Mr. McIntosh" was a highly respected Master at Stratford Teachers' College. His many students will remember his commitment to excellence in all its forms. He has been a supportive member of our organization for many years. With thankfulness we remember his contributions to educational pedagogy, and his determination to sustain high standards in presentation and assessment. His planning of Remembrance Day services has served as a prototype for classrooms throughout the area for countless years. Helen Anderson, Corresponding Secretary, Friends of Stratford Normal School and Teachers' College Heritage.
My sincere sympathy to Betty and family. I had the privilege of knowing and working with Don as a trustee on the Middlesex County School Board. He was a well respected educator who contributed much to the youth of Middlesex through his knowledge and experience. This is a great loss to all who knew and loved him.
My sympathies to Betty, Kathy & Robert in the passing of Don. May the memories you have help you through this time of loss.
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
(Donated to Mission Services of London)
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Don hired me to teach at Biddulph Lucan Central School for the Middlesex County School Board in 1974. He was my superintendent for many years who taught me the value of all those long range and short range plans. He was a master of his craft related to education. He was always encouraging and complimentary when he reviewed my daybook and plans when it was time for a teacher's assessment and appraisal. I am now retired outside Lion's Head not far from Wiarton where Don lived in his youth. I appreciated his wisdom and guidance during my wonderful teaching career. My sympathies and condolences are sent to Don's family at this time of his passing. Sincerely Sharron Barnes Colter
~ Sharron Barnes Colter