DON WILSON

Condolences & Memories (9 entries)

• I remember when June first met Don on a cruise. She headed out to B.C. for a ski trip. When she came back she couldn't stop smiling. Don and June had found what would be 30 yrs of traveling, skiing, biking, laughter and birding. I was lucky to see this life venture happen. My heart aches for you June. Love you. - Posted by: Donna Beasley (Friend) on: Feb 17, 2026

• I met Don through June as driver for Wheels of Hope in Winnipeg. June introduced me to Don and told me he would be a good mentor for my winter sojourns in Kelowna. We became fast friends and spent plenty of time together in Kelowna over that past 7 years. Meeting up for Thai food and sharing photos of his lasted adventure. We enjoyed kayaking and occasional happy hour with June and him in Winnipeg in the summers. One day in Winnipeg I was cycling in Woodhaven and in the distance I could see a swarm of Grey hares approaching. They flew past me at a significant speed , June leading the pack. I felt like a child watching a fast paced parade passing by. Lo and behold, there was Don, the last cyclist keeping an eye on the herd and his beloved June. RIP my friend - Posted by: Karen (Timchuk) on: Feb 16, 2026

• June & family - our sincere sympathy to you all. We enjoyed getting to know Don & always enjoyed our visits with you both.Take very good care. - Posted by: Garry & Lynne Tolton (Friends) on: Feb 15, 2026

• Don was the only person I knew that wore the blue jacket of Adventure Canada. We would always laugh when both of us turned up for birding mornings wearing our jackets. We shared stories of our trips both different, but so wonderful to share memories. I will miss the blue jacket. Take care all. - Posted by: Steffany walker (A birding friend of Kelowna) on: Feb 15, 2026

• It was a very sad day to learn of Don's passing. I believe my first meeting with Don was at the Kelowna Nordic Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe Club and then again through the local Naturalist club. How fortunate I was to be on Don's annual winter bird count team for the club. I will miss the stories of your adventures with the Naturalist Club in it's early years and again with June. Rest in peace my friend. Merle Auty Central Okanagan Naturalist Club Kelowna - Posted by: Merle Auty (a birding friend) on: Feb 14, 2026

• June, we were shocked and saddened by Don's sudden death. He was such a welcoming, affable, and active person. We will greatly miss seeing his friendly face in the summer. Rest in Peace, Don. Carol & Wayne Guicheret - Posted by: Carol Guicheret (Friend) on: Feb 14, 2026

• I was so sorry to hear of Don's passing. I learned quite a bit about bird behavior from him on a few hikes and enjoyed his camaraderie when we were both on the board of Friends of Black Mountain. He was lovely man. My condolences to June and his extended family. - Posted by: Carol Millar (friend) on: Feb 14, 2026

• The sudden passing of our dear friend Don came as a shock. We looked forward to more time with Don. Especially missed will be his and June’s occasional visits to our cottage where we looked forward to our annual trek with Don along the trails where he instructed us in Ornithology identifying most of the birds by song alone. And shared with us his deep knowledge of the natural world, founded in science and fueled by passion. The Bird man of Kelowna now flies with the eagles. Heartfelt Condolences to June and Brian and Kat. There will be an empty chair around the table yes but fond memories in our hearts. Much love Paul and Charlotte. - Posted by: Paul And Charlotte Westdal (Friend) on: Feb 14, 2026

• Remembering some nice times on the ski trails and a wondrous trip to Costa Rica- for the birds! Our condolences to June and his family and friends. - Posted by: Eric Smith/Louise Buelow-Smith (Charleswood Ski Club) on: Feb 14, 2026