Donald Andrew Thompson

After a life filled with laughter, Donald Andrew Thompson, age 89, passed away peacefully on July 29th, 2026, at St. Andrew’s Terrace in Cambridge, Ontario. He leaves behind the love of his life, Mary (née Archibald), sister Anne Harper, daughters Patricia (Don) and Jill (Matt), grandson Oliver, irreplaceable friend Jeannie and family, adored cat Wally, beloved nieces, nephews and their families, step-brother Donnie and brother-in-law Rick. Predeceased by his parents, Allan & Audrey (Fleming) Thompson and his younger sister Janet Dawson of Calgary.

Don’s life began in New Glasgow and Pictou County, Nova Scotia, where his love of water was born. He was a true Maritimer, who would talk to anybody and brighten their day. He studied history and law at King’s College, Dalhousie University, where he met Mary and many lifelong friends. Don practiced law for over 50 years in downtown Galt and did not retire until 83 due to his love of the profession, great colleagues, and the interactions with his clients. He loved to golf, curl, and spend time at the Southampton cottage, overlooking Lake Huron.

Don (aka Friendly or Crash) was a unique character who brightened the world with laughter, curiosity, and compassion. He had a genuine interest to learn something new about absolutely anyone he met. His extraordinary loyalty and care for Mary over the past decade reflected a drive to always take the time to understand how life might feel to others. Until his final days he was motivated to learn, whether it be world history, politics, the game of golf, or anything YouTube had to offer. His family and friends remember him as hilarious, kind, generous, sharp, socially aware, candid and unfiltered, sensitive, inquisitive, inclusive, relaxed, humble and the life of the party. He was a one of a kind friend to so many. Above all, Don was fun. His raucous laughter was contagious. We will miss that.

A heartfelt thank you to his wonderful family, friends and neighbours, his homecare team and the staff at St. Andrew’s Terrace, Cambridge Memorial Hospital and Guelph General Hospital for laughing along with him through his biggest challenges.

Don has chosen cremation and a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 1 - 4 p.m. at The Galt Country Club, 750 Coronation Blvd., Cambridge. As expressions of sympathy, the family would appreciate a donation to a charity of your choice.