After a yearlong, stoic battle with cancer, Don’s last wish was met as he peacefully passed away in his home at Rose Lake.
The past year was filled with family times and…. no complaints. Children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters gathered close and created numerous memories as they appreciated a hard working family man. Don loved his family and was able to enjoy precious times, laughter and fun, right to the end of his life.
Don was born in Burns Lake. He grew up on the Payne homestead at Rose Lake during stump farming and tie cutting years.
He began his work life when he left school at age 12 years. He raised his family and lived out his life on the “hill”, one mile from his childhood home.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, flying, trapping and was an accomplished marksman at the Tweedsmuir Rod and Gun Club.
He died with no regrets; feeling that he had all that he needed and wanted.
Don was predeceased by his wife, Esther, a son, Wayne, brothers, Jackie and Roddy Payne and sister, Doreen Ball.
He is survived by his friend and companion, Betty Pattinson, his five children, Donna Unger (Rudy), Leona Campbell (Blaine), Wanda Giesbrecht (Ed), Brenda Matson, and Doug Payne (Ronda), fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.
A celebration of life was held on November 30 at the Island Gospel Gymnasium.
Don will be missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends.