Don, one of eleven children, was born Ankim Ram Chandra on February 15, 1935 in Fiji. Don and his four brothers attended a christian school where he learned English and learned about Jesus. Don chose to be baptized and added the name Donald. While still a young boy, Don lost his mother. He and his youngest sister then lived with relatives. Don said with a chuckle that his mother was strict and when she wanted to get after him, he would run to his father and slide between his feet for protection.
Don became a teacher at the school he used to attend. When Don and Lora visited Fiji in 1998, Don was invited to address the students - what an honour. His second teaching job was in Suva. Adventurous, Don emigrated to Canada, first to Toronto, then to Sparwood, BC. The next move was to Vancouver to attend UBC where he earned his Bachelor of Education Degree. Right after, he was hired to teach in Alert Bay, BC in 1970. In January 1971, Lora arrived to teach at the primary school. That's when their love story began. August 21st, 1971, Don and Lora said their vows in Toronto where Lora's family lived. They all loved him. Don and Lora moved to North Delta and Don started teaching at Hugh McRoberts Secondary School in Richmond, where he taught until he retired twenty-six years later.
In 1975, the first daughter, Karen was born. What joy! Then in 1977, another bundle of joy, Lisa arrived. Don loved his girls and was very proud of them. The family enjoyed many activities - driving across Canada to Ontario, camping and hiking. Don and Lora had a strong Christian faith and were active members at Surrey Methodist Church for many years and then at Surrey Alliance, to the present.
Don was athletic and exercised daily. After the age of 50, he learned to skate, ski and snowboard, and golf, which he loved. As his mobility declined, this was something hard for him to give up.
What a thrill and blessing in his old age to become a grandparent to Xavier, now 7 and Genevieve, 4. He lamented that he would not be around to watch them fully grow up.
Wherever Don went, he made good friends. He strongly believed everyone was equal and mattered. We will greatly miss Don's infectious smile, his kind gentle spirit and his love.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.2