Diane Phyllis MacDonald
Diane Phyllis MacDonald
Obituary
Diane grew up in Powell River BC, the youngest of three children born to Phyllis and Dan Campbell. She was creative from the start, cultivating an early love of reading, art and spending time in nature, especially at the beach.
Diane met the love of her life Douglas MacDonald at the age of 15 when they were in high school together. They married in 1965 and settled in Burnaby BC. They welcomed daughter Danielle in 1973.
Diane and Doug shared 64 years of partnership rich with respect, humour and affection. They enjoyed social gatherings, playing tennis and visiting with many wonderful friends and neighbours over the years especially dear friends Anna-Marie & Murray.
Diane's love of adventure took her all over Europe, the US, Africa and South America. She loved traveling with family and friends, collecting stories from each experience and sharing them enthusiastically on her return.
Diane was an organizational genius. She offered her administrative talent to many workplaces including the School Board, Government Offices, the Canadian Cancer Society and finally creating a business with friend Shirley doing estate facilitation. Her warm and patient nature lent grace to those in transition and was a fulfilling career until her retirement in 1996.
In her quiet moments Diane loved to read mysteries, crochet, sew, paint and write. She was active all her life teaching fitness and inspiring others to enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Diane was a remarkably caring woman with a capacity to assist others with whatever was needed. Her gentle loving nature is reflected in all who experienced her thoughtfulness over the years.
Diane will be held dearly in the hearts of Doug, Danielle, Dewayne and Marcus. Forever loved by her sister Barb (Bob) sister-in-law Dot (departed brother Dan), beloved nieces and nephews Carrie (Larry), Ken (Tiina), Dar (Grant), Steve (Lesa), Terri (Clay), Daryl (Shannon), Steve and Matt, her many grand nieces and nephews, cousins Loretta, Dorothy, Diane, Pat and brother-in-law Greg, and finally every single friend she met along her great adventure of life. She was thrilled to turn 80 last March and told everyone she saw. She is forever loved.
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Please share your memories of Diane!
November 22, 2024
I’ll remember Diane fondly. She was my second cousin and an amazing person. Many happy memories of visiting her and Doug in Burnaby. The last time I seen her was in Victoria a few years back. Her and Doug invited me and Loretta (her cousin) my mom for breakfast before we left for home. She put on a delicious meal and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. She showed us her card making which she enjoyed very much. She was happy and so kind as always! Will miss her, until we meet again. 💐💐💐
November 20, 2024
Hi Doug
Thank you for letting us read the wonderful tributes from family and friends. Diane always had a friendly greeting whenever we would meet. She had a positive attitude, when she faced some difficult times, health wise, and felt free to share about them. She was strong. She will be missed. Our condolences to you Doug, and your family. You are in our prayers. Doris and Harvey
Thank you for letting us read the wonderful tributes from family and friends. Diane always had a friendly greeting whenever we would meet. She had a positive attitude, when she faced some difficult times, health wise, and felt free to share about them. She was strong. She will be missed. Our condolences to you Doug, and your family. You are in our prayers. Doris and Harvey
November 18, 2024
Soo sorry to hear about Diane’s passing. I have fond memories of boarding with Doug and Diane as I completed my nursing degree. Diane was a beautiful and calming soul and was a pleasure to board with. I always looked forward to hanging out and conversing with Diane after an exhausting day of nursing school. She will be missed and my thoughts and prayers are with the Doug, Danielle and the rest of the family. My condolences and pure love for Diane ❤️❤️
Sincerely,
Ran
Sincerely,
Ran
November 18, 2024
Aunty Di was such a special woman. I’m so sad to hear of her passing but I think back to all of the wonderful memories that I have of her and it brings a smile to my face. I don’t think I ever saw her in a bad mood, she was such a loving and caring person and she had such a terrific sense of humour. She and Uncle Doug were kind enough to let me live with them when I first moved to Vancouver around 2015. Some of my fondest memories are of the two of us sitting at her kitchen table in Burnaby, chatting over a pot of tea. She was always so delighted to sit and listen to me as I’d tell her about my day. Her calming demeanour was so wonderfully disarming; I always felt so comfortable around her. She was one of the most accepting and non-judgemental human beings that I’ve ever met; truly a beautiful soul. I’m going to miss her dearly.
November 17, 2024
So sorry to hear of Diane's passing. My Mom Shirley Healey and Diane were childhood friends until my mother's passing in 2008. I have many fond memories of Christmas holidays when our families would gather and many memories from the Burrard Motor Inn where Doug, my Mom and Dad, and I worked together for many years. Diane was a wonderful soul. I will miss her.
November 17, 2024
Dear Doug and family. I met Diane at VW&Roger's in 1972. We became good friends and although my life took me across the world back to NZ I have always remembered Diane with much love. I'm very thankful for the times we spent together. Sending special thoughts and hugs to Doug and family and friends. May Diane rest in peace. Love always Marilyn. Xx
November 17, 2024
Diane, thank you so much for taking me in and looking after me; thank you for welcoming me into your home and your family; thank you for making me feel loved when my mum was dying and my life was falling apart; thank you for keeping me safe and feeling wanted when I had no-one else and no home left.
I wouldn’t have gone to school either, otherwise — it hardly seemed important in the big scheme of things, but thank you for making sure I maintained some relative normality in my life: as well as being able to keep learning, I got to be a kid for a little bit longer, which I really needed! I remember what a long way it was from Burnaby to my school on the West Side, and though I don’t remember much about school itself, what I do remember is all the many good times with your family — and the love!
I remember picking blackberries with you, baking cookies and pies — and one time Cinnamon Buns, from scratch! I remember helping train Buddy and Taff, walking Taffy in those lovely woodland trails around your home, watching Star Trek in the evenings and, both when I lived with you in 1993, and when I came over to visit over those next few summers, taking so many pleasant trips over to Vancouver Island on the ferry, up to Powell River to visit Gramma Campbell and Grampa John MacDonald, and those very special, very happy summer days at the Campbell clan cabin on the lake!
Those are some of the happiest memories of my life — after you took care of me through the very worst part of it.
Diane was such a wonderful, warm, kind and smart lady — I was privileged to have been part of her life and her wonderful family! You all made an enormous difference in my life. I treasure those memories, and I’ll never forget you, Diane!
I wouldn’t have gone to school either, otherwise — it hardly seemed important in the big scheme of things, but thank you for making sure I maintained some relative normality in my life: as well as being able to keep learning, I got to be a kid for a little bit longer, which I really needed! I remember what a long way it was from Burnaby to my school on the West Side, and though I don’t remember much about school itself, what I do remember is all the many good times with your family — and the love!
I remember picking blackberries with you, baking cookies and pies — and one time Cinnamon Buns, from scratch! I remember helping train Buddy and Taff, walking Taffy in those lovely woodland trails around your home, watching Star Trek in the evenings and, both when I lived with you in 1993, and when I came over to visit over those next few summers, taking so many pleasant trips over to Vancouver Island on the ferry, up to Powell River to visit Gramma Campbell and Grampa John MacDonald, and those very special, very happy summer days at the Campbell clan cabin on the lake!
Those are some of the happiest memories of my life — after you took care of me through the very worst part of it.
Diane was such a wonderful, warm, kind and smart lady — I was privileged to have been part of her life and her wonderful family! You all made an enormous difference in my life. I treasure those memories, and I’ll never forget you, Diane!
November 17, 2024
Auntie Di, something I always admired about you was your incredible zest for life. You brought humour, kindness, and curiosity into every moment, and your energy was contagious. ❤️
Growing up, I loved hearing about the all the amazing travels you'd been on, and watching you paint as you were one of the best artists I knew. Some of my favourite memories of us were at the cabin when we'd do sewing projects together.
I'm so grateful for the time we got to spend together, and that I got to see you this past summer. I love you, and I'm going to miss you so much.
Growing up, I loved hearing about the all the amazing travels you'd been on, and watching you paint as you were one of the best artists I knew. Some of my favourite memories of us were at the cabin when we'd do sewing projects together.
I'm so grateful for the time we got to spend together, and that I got to see you this past summer. I love you, and I'm going to miss you so much.
November 16, 2024
Diane knew the value of things, the things that matter. She was generous with all she had, but most importantly with her love. Her home was like a hotel with a revolving door. I first witnessed this when young Harry came to stay after losing his mother, our colleague at the Canadian Cancer Society. Diane didn’t try to be a mother to him; instead, she was a friend offering him that subtle, steady guidance she was known for. Her calm, patience, and how she naturally chose words with such exactness made her a treasured confidante and a great problem solver. She and Doug were always at the ready to help. They transported and moved a bedframe for Noelle up steep attic stairs and several years later took in her ex-boyfriend – from same attic - so he could finish his semester at BCIT. Diane was my supportive wingman at Harrison Hot Springs when I spread my mother’s ashes. She never missed a Birthday to send her love or to celebrate a milestone. I was delighted to join Diane and Doug and friend Barry for one of their wedding anniversaries. (I want to say 40th but I’d need Diane’s sharp memory to confirm this.) They planned a night at the newly opened Opus Hotel – she had to see those bathrooms! The celebration started with a drink in their room (so I could see one too!) then after a delightful dinner at The Boathouse, ended with a cocktail at the Sylvia Hotel where many memories of their long romance were shared. We shared a love of nature and a love of animals, especially dogs, walking many a beach with smiles when the eagles chortled their greeting. I am so grateful and feel so blessed to have had Diane, the steadfast, and yes, “the beautiful” in my life. You were always an angel but now have your wings.
November 16, 2024
Diane, as my oldest friend's mom, I have had the honor of knowing you since I was 5 years old. I fondly remember the chocolate chip cookies you made and all the time I spent on Garden Grove Drive. I'm so fortunate that I was able to see you and Doug in November 2022 when I came to Victoria to share the news with Danielle that I was pregnant. It was such a special visit for me to be with all of you after knowing you, Doug and Danielle for practically all my life. You were such an intelligent, poised woman. I will miss you dearly.
November 16, 2024
Diane, my baby sister and lifelong friend. I first held your hand when you were brand new. Bonded, we shared so much love for each other, Mom, Dad, and our brother Dan. Our love of nature, sunsets, the ocean, lakes, wind and rain in our beautiful hometown of Powell River. Here, we met the loves of our lives, had beautiful families of our own, loved and enjoyed extended family together…..How do I share the feelings of a whole lifetime in just a few words? My emotions are so big and raw right now as I feel the weight of your loss. Sister Diane, I will hold you close in my heart forever.
Always holding your hand.
Love Barb
Always holding your hand.
Love Barb
November 16, 2024
So many memories of Diane…car rally’s, ABFM picnics, her wonderful dinners & late night card games.
Diane was a gracious host & a good friend.
We were so fortunate to have that visit in July with Di & Doug, the Middlemiss Family & Campbell clan.
Diane will be missed by so many of us.
Kath & Rod Taylor-Gregg.
Diane was a gracious host & a good friend.
We were so fortunate to have that visit in July with Di & Doug, the Middlemiss Family & Campbell clan.
Diane will be missed by so many of us.
Kath & Rod Taylor-Gregg.
November 16, 2024
My dear Auntie Di,
I will always be grateful for the memories of time spent staying with you. Precious time with you and Uncle Doug, cousins and the wonderful experiences of being a big cousin to your sweet Danielle. As a young adult, living with you while I went to college in the big city was such a gift. I too felt the warmth of your love. I’m so grateful for our last visit- treasured memories for sure.
Always with admiration, you will be missed.
Rest easy,
love your Niece Terri
I will always be grateful for the memories of time spent staying with you. Precious time with you and Uncle Doug, cousins and the wonderful experiences of being a big cousin to your sweet Danielle. As a young adult, living with you while I went to college in the big city was such a gift. I too felt the warmth of your love. I’m so grateful for our last visit- treasured memories for sure.
Always with admiration, you will be missed.
Rest easy,
love your Niece Terri
November 16, 2024
When I was growing up my family and I moved every two or three years. By the time I was 12 years old we had lived in 5 different towns. Then in 1957 we moved to Powell River. The three years I lived in Westview were some of the happiest of my life. Terrific school, lots of really cool kids and best of all, I met Diane Campbell. Diane was a kindhearted, loyal, fun-loving girl and soon became one of my best friends. Her generosity of spirit shone through everything she embarked upon. Her passion for life and helping others knew no bounds. Diane was well loved and will be missed by all of us who knew her.
November 15, 2024
Di you were a loving sister in law. Together with Dan and Doug we shared many hours together. Rest in peace and love. Dot.
November 15, 2024
What can you say to capsulize 55 years of a wonderful friendship?
From 1969 when Douglas was Anna-Marie's first boss at the BofM.. to their visit to our new townhouse in 1973 and becoming close neighbours for 30+ years and sharing reciprocal visits to Bowen and Victoria over the last 8?
Diane was a saint...putting up with the shenanigan's Doug and Murray would get into. A virtual sister to Anna-Marie. An amazing wife, mom, aunt and best of all the best friend anyone could have asked to have in our lives.
She will be sorrily missed, not just by us but by our many friends who have come to know and developed their own friendship with this wonderful lady. RIP Diane, the beautiful.
From 1969 when Douglas was Anna-Marie's first boss at the BofM.. to their visit to our new townhouse in 1973 and becoming close neighbours for 30+ years and sharing reciprocal visits to Bowen and Victoria over the last 8?
Diane was a saint...putting up with the shenanigan's Doug and Murray would get into. A virtual sister to Anna-Marie. An amazing wife, mom, aunt and best of all the best friend anyone could have asked to have in our lives.
She will be sorrily missed, not just by us but by our many friends who have come to know and developed their own friendship with this wonderful lady. RIP Diane, the beautiful.
November 14, 2024
I will remember Diane for her caring of others and devotion to family. Diane had a quiet, sharp wit that I enjoyed. Diane had an inner strength when facing life’s challenges. I have only known Diane for the past dozen years, but in that time have always loved her sense of humour and caring nature.
November 13, 2024
My Mother's love was deep and unconditional. She offered loving kindness and soft guidance whenever needed. She was a great storyteller and listener. Her gift was her warmth and great capacity for adventure, which lead to stories spoken with awe for the beauty in the world, in people, places and especially nature. She was a brilliant, curious woman and I will feel her presence every day. Deep gratitude to you my beautiful Mom. You are so loved.
November 13, 2024
Diane has been the love of my life for the past 64 years we have been together. I will miss her dearly.
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