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DONALD CHARLES COOK
Born: Nov 21, 1955
Date of Passing: May 29, 2021
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
DONALD CHARLES COOK
November 21, 1955 - May 29, 2021
Donald will be dearly missed by his wife of 40 years, Ardith, sons, Steven and Phil (Erin), grandson Andy, daughter Elyse (Richard), mother Eleanor, brothers, Rodney (Sheila), Kevin (Sandra), Garth (Tricia), and sisters, Karen (Greg) and Heather, in-laws, Ian, Kim, Brent and Bev Reid, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and friends. He is reunited with his father, Ken, and so many family and friends.
For Donald, there was nothing better than growing up in Dugald, where his family and friends were always around. He enjoyed summers on the farm, acquiring the driving skills he used for many road trips in his Corvette and Cougar. After graduating from Springfield Collegiate in 1973, Donald completed the Civil Engineering Technology program at Red River College in 1975. His career took him across Manitoba working with PFRA, Ken Cook Ltd., NFCRA, Footprint Engineering (NCN), and Strilkiwski Contracting Ltd. Donald was well-respected by his colleagues, many of whom became good friends.
Donald and Ardith were married on May 30, 1981, and shortly after moved to Oakbank (gasp!) to raise their family. Donald had many lifelong interests that he shared with his kids - curling, the Jets and Bombers, travel, photography, reading and crossword puzzles. He had an incredible memory and everyone wanted him on their Trivial Pursuit team.
Donald racked up a lot of kilometers on the road - whether up north for work, or to small-town Manitoba for tournaments and bonspiels, he always had the vehicle warmed up and ready to go. His favourite trips included Miami, Acapulco, Grey Cups in Toronto and Montreal, Hawaii, the Caribbean, California, Florida, Ottawa, Arkansas, and Arizona to visit Ken and Eleanor.
Although he didn't get to enjoy a long retirement at home, he made sure the coffee was on every morning and that Coronation Street was always recorded for Ardith. He will be lovingly remembered.
There will be a virtual Celebration of Life on Tuesday, June 8 at 7:00 p.m. at www.seasonsfunerals.com. If friends so desire, a donation in Donald's memory to CancerCare Manitoba would be appreciated.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and leave condolences by visiting Donald's memorial page at seasonsfunerals.ca
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 05, 2021
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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Where do I begin, we know all these family members. Deepest condolences to the Cook and Reid families. Loved the Oak Bank gasp comment...gotta love Dugald. eh! Lorraine Hughes, Ken and Sharon Brown, Verna and Bill Nisbett. - Posted by: Lorraine hughes (Don(d) (Friends) on: Jun 08, 2021
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Dear Ardith, Steven, Phil and Elsye. Karen and I are saddened to here of Don's passing. I remember when we really got to know Don, when the boys where curling at the junior provincials in Swan River. It was the first time we had spent time with Don and were quick to experience his wit and humor. I can still picture him at Phil and Erin's wedding sitting on the picnic table with a beer in his hand beaming with pride. We have many fond memories of the times spent watching the boys at the Dugald Curling club. He will truly be missed. - Posted by: Ken Young (Friend ) on: Jun 07, 2021
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Dear Ardith and all your family, we are saddened to hear of Donald’s untimely passing. He always had a quick, often humorous response to any given situation. Know we are keeping you in our hearts throughout this time. Love, Bonnie and Cheryl - Posted by: Cheryl Hudzick (Friend) on: Jun 06, 2021
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Sorry for your loss Rodney and family. - Posted by: Herb wllks (friend ) on: Jun 05, 2021
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I went to school with Donald from Grade 6 to Grade 12. Donald was the smartest, funniest, and kindest boy in our class. Last time I saw him was at our 10 Year Reunion in 1983 - so long ago. Over the years, when I reminisced about my school times, I would fondly think of him. I was so sorry to hear of his too early passing. My condolence to the family. - Posted by: Dianna Gurican Shimbashi (Calgary, Alberta) (Classmate ) on: Jun 05, 2021
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