Donald Jackson Orr
March 19, 2024
Peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at University Hospital, London, Don passed away at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Margaret (Buker) for 60 years. Cherished father of Mitch and his partner Colleen and daughter Stacey. Treasured grandfather of Tyler, Rachel and Ryann. Dear brother of Sandra and Linda (McCabe). Predeceased by brother Thomas (Faye), brothers-in-law Victor and Doug, and son-in-law Jim. Beloved Uncle Don to numerous nieces and nephews.
Don grew up in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. An avid fisherman and hunter, he treasured time spent with family and friends on Beatrice Lake and the Blanche River, where you could often pick up the scent wafting off of his pipe in the old days.
Don was a much loved educator, with a career spanning decades teaching English and eventually becoming the head of the English Department at Kirkland Lake Collegiate & Vocational Institute (KLCVI).
Don was a voracious reader and especially loved to read and write poetry. And watch out if you were up against him in a game of trivia! Don played golf, hockey and baseball and was a lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays. We know he will be rejoicing in any future glory that comes their way. His love for music knew no bounds and he was an active member of the Men of Accord singing group in his retirement in London, Ontario.
Don endured a lifelong battle with diabetes, along with a kidney transplant, heart valve replacement, and knee replacement – a true bionic man. He persevered through all of these challenges with grace, determination and a wry sense of humour.
We are forever thankful for the time we spent with Don and trust that he is at peace, fishing rod in hand and looking down upon us with love.
Special thanks to the doctors, nursing staff and personal support workers at LHSC and Oak Crossing Long Term Care for their exceptional care and kindness to Don over the past few years.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Don’s Life will take place in the summer. Donations in Don’s memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
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Marg, Mitch, and Stacey, Grant and I are so saddened at Don’s passing. I know he and you all have been through a very tough, long battle. Grant and Don spent so many early and later years together, through public and high school and then as roommates through University. Lots of good memories. We send our love, hugs and prayers. Lib and Grant ❣️🫂🙏
I was sorry to read of Don’s passing and send my sympathies and prayers to his family. I last saw Don when his father, my uncle, Allen died many years ago. Reading his obituary it sounds liked he knew how to live life and I’m sure he will be greatly missed by his loved ones. Please know we are thinking of you.
My deepest condolences to Mrs. Orr and family, my heart goes to you all. Thinking of you during this difficult time. RIP Mr. Orr.
A donation has been made to Kidney Foundation. Message from the donator: My sincere sympathy Mitch, Colleen and family.
A donation has been made to Diabetes Canada. Message from the donator: Dear Ryann and family, We are thinking of you all in this time of loss. May your memories keep you together, even when you are apart. Samantha, Alan, Paula, Peri, and Shauna
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A donation has been made to Diabetes Canada. Message from the donator: Sincere condolences for your loss. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
~ Jennifer Wasylenko