REV. DONALD IAN WILSON B.A., M.DIV. Peacefully, and in the blessing of his family's love, Don's life ended on March 4, 2017. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 55 years, Margaret, children Michael (Maureen), Mary Beth, Andrew (Deanna), and his cherished grandchildren Aidan, Benjamin, Leah, Gabriel, Ella, Abigail, and Rachel; as well, his sister Martha, and many nieces, nephews, neighbours, and friends. Don was predeceased by his mother Helen, sister Jean, and son-in-law Tom Podivinsky. Born in Kitchener in 1933, Don grew up in various communities in southern Ontario. His mother's faith and example led him to begin theological studies at Waterloo College in the late 1950s. It was there that he first met Margaret Steele and invited her to his sister's wedding. They married in 1962 upon Don's graduation from Emmanuel College in Toronto. At ordination he was persuaded to come to the Church for the Deaf in Winnipeg, a calling that honoured his friendship with a deaf cousin. He promised Margaret a five year stay but here they remained. Don's ministry led him to Harstone United Church, to SMD as Director of Deaf Services, to John Black Memorial, and lastly Knox United. He is remembered for his contributions to numerous deaf programs and as a founder of the local Alzheimer's Society. Don and Margaret came to enjoy the many benefits of life here including the WSO and MTC, gardening, Saturday night bridge, and travels with Glen and Margaret Harrison. In later years Don took great delight in his involvement with the St. Andrew's Society (past-president and Honorary Chaplain) and his Life Membership (non-singing!) in the Gilbert and Sullivan Society. The family is immensely grateful for the attentive and compassionate care provided by the staff of Grace Hospital 3 North. We wish to thank Dr. Arthur Blank, Dr. Brian Lecker, and Dr. John Rabson for their years of commitment to Don's wellbeing. A service of thanksgiving, presided by life-long friend Rev. Dr. John Ambrose, will be held on Thursday, March 9 at 2:00 p.m. at Charleswood United Church, 4820 Roblin Blvd. Your thoughts and prayers are all the kindness the family requires. Those who so wish please make a donation to a charity of your choice or to the Memorial Fund of Charleswood United Church. Great is thy faithfulness, God our Creator NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 07, 2017