Donald David Aurel

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please join us to mourn the passing of Donald David Aurel. His supportive and loving presence will be deeply missed by his wife Robin Aurel, his sisters Shirley and Amy, his in-laws, many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Don was born on April 1st 1946 into a family of four brothers and two sisters in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. From an early age two things stood out about Don; his kind heart and his love of the outdoors. He could often be found fishing at the river with one or more of his siblings. He turned this passion into a career when he joined Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) as a Fishery Officer.

The majority of Don’s career was spent in British Columbia, where he met the love of his life, Robin Aurel (nee Cowan) in 1979. From their home base in Maple Ridge B.C., Don would travel all over in Western Canada as a skilled competitive shooter, often taking home top marks. His knowledge and skill with firearms also translated into his most well-known hobby, hunting. Don’s love of hunting spanned his lifetime. From 1981 onwards Don made an annual trip to Uncha Lake with some of his closest friends, successfully hunting moose.

At home Don was a studious person, who was never without a project on the go. Known to be both a jack of all trades and a perfectionist, Don could fix just about anything. He was also an excellent cook, always looking up new recipes to experiment with.

In 2001 Don and Robin left BC in order for Don to assume his final position with the DFO as Area Chief of Conservation and Protection: Prairies. They settled into a beautiful Calgary neighborhood, where they spent their free time walking their beloved dogs Tag, and then Hopper. Friendly waves progressed into genuine friendships with many of the neighbors.

Don’s steady manner, genuine care, and great smile will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He will always be in our hearts.

A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 2:00PM at FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL (3220 4th Street NW, Calgary AB). For those wishing to view the Livestream of Don's service you are welcome to call Foster's Garden Chapel for further details (403-297-0888).