Obituary of Donald Alexander Robertson
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Alexander Robertson on March 6, 2023. He passed away peacefully at home in Ottawa with loved ones by his side.
He is predeceased by his wife Karen (nee. McTiernan) and his parents Agnes (nee. Weir) and Alexander. He is survived by his partner Susan Smith, his brother Stuart (Beth), his son Andrew (Jenna) and grandson Liam, and his son Stephen. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and other family members and friends throughout New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.
Known to his family and friends as ‘Don’, he was born in Peterborough, Ontario, in 1947. Don cherished growing up in Peterborough and often shared fond childhoodmemories, whether it was his mother Agnes’ cooking or milking cows on his grandfather’s farm. After spending some time in Toronto, Don later moved to Ottawa to start a life with his wife, Karen. Together, they built a life surrounding their sons’ sports schedules, camping trips with family friends, and road trips to Peterborough, Ontario and Minto, New Brunswick. Don retired in 2009 after spending several decades working in IM/IT for various companies. A few years later, he lost his dear wife Karen after a lengthy battle with cancer. He regained his zest for life when he reconnected with Susan, his high school sweetheart. As Don’s health deteriorated, Susan provided him with steadfast care, compassion and companionship. Don took strength from those around him, including the many friends who visited him and his grandson, Liam, whom he adored. He will be remembered as a man who appreciated the simple things in life, like sitting in the sun on the front porch, enjoying a quiet moment with his dog, and singing along to the oldies. In the words of his niece Stephanie, Don knew what was important in life; it was the experiences that created cherished memories.
The family would like to thank all of the wonderful nurses and doctors that provided care and support to Don, especially Dr. Vincent and his team, and Emmanuel and Nicole. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his grandson Liam's education or to the PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary in Roseneath, Ontario. At Don’s request, there will be no funeral. A celebration of life will take place later this year.
Happy trails to you, Don, until we meet again.
