September 28, 1944 – February 6, 2025
Donald passed away peacefully in the early evening of February 6, 2025, at the Grace Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. His friend and companion of 33 years, Agnes, was by his side.
Don was predeceased by his parents Jack and Phyllis Collins, and sister Beth.
He is survived by his son Curtis (Clarice) and their children Rayna, Gracie, Serenity, Curtis, Brinley, and Lincoln; his beloved partner, Agnes, her two daughters Donna (Jack), and Deborah, and dear family friend, Kal. He was Grandpa Don to Kyleen, Lauren, and Eric and was soon-to-be a great grandpa by his granddaughter Kyleen. He is also survived by his sister Sandra (Doug), brothers Brian (Diana), and John, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Donald was born in Winnipeg and was very proud of his Scottish and Irish heritage. He was a proud Veteran in the Armed Forces, and we are grateful for his service to our country. Donald joined the Cadets at an early age and enlisted in the Canadian Military, serving with P.P.C.L.I., Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders in Canada, Germany, Cypress, and Egypt. Donald had a good work ethic and had many careers, always giving his best in whatever he was doing. Upon returning to Canada, he served with the Queen’s Own Cameron for several years. After retiring from the military, Donald served as a security Commissionaire at the University of Manitoba. He was a proud member of the Canadian Legion No. 100 Charleswood Branch, and during his time there, he served as Sergeant at Arms with dignity and volunteered with the sick and visiting committee.
Donald had many social connections and enjoyed camping, curling, bowling, family holiday celebrations, and many Legion events. Many memories were made visiting the McLeod retreat at Fisher Bay, Manitoba and annual summer visits to Norway House to celebrate York Boat Days. He enjoyed taking in the culture and history of the North. Grandpa Don never missed a family event, celebration, or holiday. He was always present at important life moments of those closest to him and generously gave treats to all the kids.
A Memorial Service to honour Donald will be held on Thursday February 20th at 1:00 p.m. at the Charleswood Legion, 6003 Roblin Blvd. A private family internment will be held at a later date at Brookside Cemetery in the Field of Honour.
A special heartfelt thank you to all of the physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals from the community and hospitals. A special thank you to the Grace Hospital 5 South Ward who provided excellent and compassionate care to our beloved Donald. You are all very special caregivers.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Grace Hospital Foundation, Winnipeg Pet Rescue, or support your local Legion.
An Army Sergeant at Rest
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Donald’s memorial page using the comment field below.
My brother Don grew up in Brooklands, Manitoba which later amalgamated with St. James and Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is also survived by his daughter, Melanie. He was close friends during his growing up years in Brooklands with the Gallagher family and the McCormack family. He will be missed.
Dear Agnes,
Please accept our sincere condolences regarding Don – we enjoyed great times at the Charleswood Legion.
Our love and sympathy,
Louise and Don Pickering
(in AZ]