DONALD MCLAREN

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DONALD MCLAREN On December 25, 2008 at the age of 67, after having a rum and eggnog, watching his favourite movie It's a Wonderful Life and visiting with those he loved the most, Donald McLaren passed away suddenly but peacefully in his sleep. He will be forever missed and his memory lovingly cherished by his wife of thirty-two years Heather, daughter Jennifer (fiance Richard Giardino), son Scott (wife Andrea Martens-McLaren). He also leaves to mourn his beloved sisters Dr. Joan McLaren of Winnipeg, Pat Bassett (Doug) of Gilbert Plains MB and brothers-in-law Daryl Hill of Winnipeg and Gordon Campbell (Yvonne) of South Africa. He was a special uncle to many nieces and nephews and their respective families. Don was predeceased by his parents Lottie and Jack McLaren, dear sister Judy Hill and niece Leigh Hill. Don was born on May 15 1941, in Dauphin Manitoba. His father's job with CNR caused the family to move frequently. His elementary schooling was mostly in Rorketon, MB. Several moves followed, to Flin Flon, Thompson and Swan River where he finished high school. He graduated from Brandon University with a B. Ed. in 1965. He started his teaching career in Rivers, Manitoba, then moved to Henry Wisewood High School in Calgary, Alberta for two years. He returned to Manitoba teaching in rural Manitoba and with the Winnipeg School Division. Don attained his Master's Degree in Applied Behavioral Science from Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington in the late 1970s. He was principal of Glenelm School and then Champlain School until his retirement in 1996. Don married the love of his life, Heather Campbell, in 1976. Together they raised two wonderful children, Jennifer and Scott, whom he adored and they him. They lived, and were active in, the Wildwood and Fort Garry communities, which is where the children went to school. After retiring in 1996 he held many assorted jobs that he enjoyed, too numerous to mention. Don and Heather moved to Vernon, BC in 2007 to fulfill a lifelong dream of living in the mountains. They built a house and enjoyed golf, cycling and exploring the local wineries with good friends and visitors. While in Vernon Don happily reunited with cousins in BC. He loved building and flying remote control model airplanes with the Big Sky Flyers in Winnipeg and with the local club in Vernon BC. He also enjoyed wood-working, music, playing guitar and singing with friends. Don was a kind and gentle man, supportive and encouraging to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a loving husband and a very proud father. A celebration of Don's life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Heart Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, the Winnipeg Humane Society or the charity of your choice. Don would love you to raise a glass with loved ones. Here's tae us, Wha's like us, Damn few..........! CHAPEL LAWN 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2008