Donald Richard Grayston

Donald Richard Grayston passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 92, surrounded by the love of his family. His life was one marked by resilience, adventure, devotion, and a deep love for family.

Don was born in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, and raised on a farm where he developed an enduring love of horses and the outdoors. Those early years shaped him into a hardworking, capable man with a quiet strength that stayed with him throughout his life. After surviving childhood polio, Don never allowed physical challenges to define or limit him. Instead, he met life head-on, with determination, grit, and a strong sense of purpose.

On November 12, 1954, Don married the love of his life, Helen Haugen. Together they built a life filled with hard work, faith, laughter, and adventure. Over their many years together, Don’s work with the Co-op took the family from Shellbrook to northern Saskatchewan - Wollaston Lake and Cumberland House. In 1968 he moved the family north to Yellowknife, NT to manage a hardware store. Whether managing stores, running a business, or later working as a purchasing manager with Federated Co-op, Don embraced every opportunity, including extensive travel throughout the Arctic, with curiosity and pride.

Family was always at the centre of Don’s world. He was a devoted husband, a steady and supportive father to his three sons—Sheldon (Margo), Keith (Tannis), and Garland (Carrie)—and a proud grandfather to Breanne MacNeil (Jared), Hailey Sander (Ty), Jodi, Cole, Max (Kathryn), Kellen, Jake (Brooke), and Jeremy. Nothing brought him more joy than watching his family grow, a joy that expanded again with the arrival of his seven great-grandchildren: Vonn, Ace, Remy, Ozzy, Carter, Rowan and Ella.

Some of Don’s happiest moments were spent at the family cabin at Cassidy Point (Yellowknife), surrounded by nature and those he loved. He and Helen were active members of the Anglican Church, generously giving their time through volunteer service, and they shared many years of laughter and friendship square dancing with the Ptarmigan Twirlers.

After retiring to Red Deer in 1990, Don embraced retirement fully—golfing, wintering in Arizona, travelling, camping, playing cards, and, above all, enjoying precious time with his grandchildren. Following Helen’s passing, Don moved to Kelowna in 2024 to be closer to family, a decision that brought him comfort and connection in his final years.

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helen of 68 years and his brothers Raymond and Bob. He will be deeply missed by his brother Wilbur (Pat) of Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, and by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In accordance with Don’s wishes his remains will be cremated. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services (Dignity Memorial) Kelowna, BC

250-762-2299