Donald Ian Stewart passed away peacefully in the early hours of February 8th, 2010 at the age of 77 years. He was in Victoria Hospice surrounded by family in his final days. His wife of 41 years, Sandy, was holding his hand for his last breaths. Don was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand. He was an avid cricketer and rugby player at Dilworth Boys’ School. In his later years he was a keen golfer, squash, and tennis player. After leaving New Zealand Don taught school in London, England and then in Canada. In the Shuswap area he was Principal at North Shuswap Elem. Jr. Secondary (1975-80), Parkview (1980-85), Salmon Arm West (1985-89) and Falkland (1989-93). He retired in 1993 and moved to Victoria in 2006, where two of his daughters reside. Don will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was a man of integrity with a wonderful sense of humour. He is survived by his wife Sandy, three children, Jillian, Melanie and Carrie and grandchildren Daria and Jackson. Don fought long and hard over the past 12 years with heart and stroke problems and then cancer. He was determined to spend as much time with family as possible.
Inurnment took place on February 12th at First Memorial Cemetery in Victoria, followed by an Open House at daughter Jillian’s. Close friends and family shared memories in celebration of his life. There were many tears, but also many laughs over a life well lived. Don’s family is very appreciative of the fine medical treatment he received over the past years. Special thanks to Dr. Fred Sonmor, Dr. Brian Ayotte, and Dr. Christopher Main in Salmon Arm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the B.C. Cancer Foundation or a charity of your choice.