Donald Ross Webster

Born in Montreal, he was the son of the late Donald and Jane (Ross) Webster, Don spent many a happy summer in Pictou, where his parents retired in 1967. He eventually made his way to Halifax where he became a friendly and familiar face.

He may have poured you a shot at Sam Slick’s or the Privateers Warehouse in the 70’s, greeted you at Thackeray’s Restaurant in the 80’s, or more recently at the Fireside Restaurant.

A long- time board member as well as Chairman of the Board (2001-2002) of the Canadian Restaurant and Food Services Association, where he was well known for his patient, diplomatic and pragmatic ways of getting the job done.

Don was highly respected by his business associates, peers and staff for his honesty, fairness and hands on operation of his various restaurants and bars.

Also known as “Curtain Boy”, you may remember his smile and or word of encouragement as you made your entrance onto the stage of his wife’s dance recitals.

You may have cast a line with him on the Margaree or enjoyed his prowess at the Cribbage table….or perhaps, he was the stranger who performed a random act of kindness, as he so often did. You only had to meet him once to remember him always. He was a man of quiet generosity and gentle spirit with a spectacular and unique sense of humour.

Don chose to live his life well and left this world exactly as he wished-with no regrets on a sunny, celebratory Saint Paddy’s Day.

Survived by his adoring wife, Jackie (Vacca), beloved sister, Janet Willwerth, much loved sisters-in-law, Nicole Holland and Dana Montgomery (Monty), brother-in-law, Patrick AuCoin; mother-in-law, Emmie AuCoin (Ray Cooper) as well as many extended family members from Ontario, Vermont and California.

He was a devoted and proud uncle of Anna, Jane and Nick Willwerth (Meg Finley) and Joe and Louis Holland. He was predeceased by his wonderful brother-in-law, Roy Willwerth.

Don, you gave so much of yourself to each and everyone one of us, it is with heavy hearts that we let you go and, yet, we only have to think or speak of you to smile again.

A final word from Don to all his family, friends and management and staff at the Fireside: “You kept the darkness away and filled my final days with light”

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel on Monday March 26, 2012 at 2pm in The Harbourfront Room. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brigadoon Children’s Camp Society at www.brigadoonvillage.org or by calling (902)422-3387

To view or place an online message of condolence please visit www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com