To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Douglas Gathercole on January 16, 2026, at the age of 83, in Kelowna, BC.
Don was born in Pincher Creek, Alberta, the youngest of 11 siblings he leaves behind his sister-in-law’s Fay, Georgie, Terry and Audrey and preceded in death by his parents Walter and Grace, his brothers George (Zoe), Frank, Tom, Bob, Jim, Sidney, Les and his sisters Grace, Fran (Ron), Lil (Herb) and Eve (Renee).
After his family relocated from Pincher Creek to the west of Calgary, he grew up on their dairy farm. Later moving to the city where he graduated from Crescent Heights High School. It was there that he met the love of his life, Wilma, and together they built a remarkable partnership that would span decades.
Don and Wilma were true entrepreneurs and devoted partners throughout their lives. They settled into the water conditioning and bottled water business, working side by side until their retirement in 2000. Before retirement, they had created something special—not only a successful business but also an acreage that was part estate, and part funny farm. It was here where they raised their three children alongside a menagerie of animals.
Don lived his life with energy and enthusiasm and was deeply rooted in his community. He was a founding member of the Bearspaw Golf and Country Club, an active member of the Bearspaw Lions Club, and gave years to officiating in sporting leagues and playing community softball. That same spirit carried over into family life - as the last surviving member of the 12 children, Don took great pride in the close relationships he had built with his nieces and nephews over the years. He was a devoted friend and father who could always be found on the sidelines, hauling kids to hockey, football, and baseball games, or pulling horses to competitions. He showed up every time, without question.
After retirement, Don and Wilma split their time between Calgary and Mexico, finally settling into their slice of paradise in Punta Esmeralda. Don enjoyed the warm weather, but most looked forward to the many visits from friends and family throughout the winter. They left Mexico in 2019, and in 2021 moved from their beloved acreage to Kelowna, reconnecting with family and friends that already called the interior their home.
Don was loved by everyone who met him. His great sense of humor and contagious laugh could light up any room. He was respected for his unwavering loyalty, honesty, tireless work ethic, and his ability to tackle anything life threw his way. Above all, he was a devoted and supportive husband to Wilma. It really was Don and Wilma against the world—and they made a fantastic duo.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Wilma; his eldest son Derek (Tania), their children Dane and Gwenyth; his son Chad and Chad’s son Austin (Ellen); and his daughter Jodi and her son Kingston. He will be dearly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 8, 2026 12:30-3:30pm at The Seasons in Bowness Park, 8900 - 48 Avenue NW, Calgary. Please rsvpfordon@gmail.com if you plan to attend.
Gallery
Memory wall
Family tree
Favorites
Service
Gathering with friend's and family, sharing lots of laughter, reminiscing about good times and eating well were some of Don's favorite things to do.
We look forward to honoring him with all of you this summer.
Please RSVP by emailing rsvpfordon@gmail.com
8900 - 48 Avenue NW
Calgary, Alberta T3B 2B2
12:30pm - 3:30pm
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