Donald George Anthony

Late in the evening of February 7th, 2025, our cherished father, Donald, at the age of 92, passed away after a brief stay at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Earlier the same day his only surviving sibling, Edith passed. His absence will be felt most by his children Gary (Debbie) of Oshawa, Gail (Jim Harmer) of Peterborough, Raymond (Melanie) of Canmore, Alberta and Jamie (Karen) of Comox, Vancouver Island. Family and friends will miss his engaging smile, easy going and charitable nature and zest for life. Cherished Grandad of Shauna and Jesse (the late Jenny) (Andrea), Derek and Teddy (Danielle), Megan (Jeff), Caitlyn and Amanda (Kai), Grant Parry, Amanda MacDonald and Jenna Parry. Much Loved Great Grandad of Shaelyn (Cameron) and Kael (Adrianna); Edward, Charlie, Harrison and Parker; Cohen; Layla, Eden Connelly, Payton and Hayden. Don’s beloved wife of 59 years, Elizabeth, passed away in 2011. In her absence, their much-loved pup, Maggie helped ease his loss. Don is predeceased by his parents Thomas and Laura. Siblings, Edith Hutcheon (Clarence), Bess Gordon (Harold), sister-in-law Mary Anthony, Mary Webster (Eddy), John (Edna), Wilf (Ester), Bert, and Henry (Doris). Don will be missed by many nieces and nephews, especially Dot Steenburgh of Cherry Valley. Don was a man of character. He loved his children equally, looked forward to every visit and was always there to listen and help when needed. He was loyal to good friends, welcoming to new ones and often charitable to those in need. He would rather say a kind word than disparage another. During his last few weeks, he was most appreciative of every call, text, warm meal and visit that broke up long days. Definitely not a fan of being housebound. He really missed Saturday night dinners with his friends. If the evening included listening to a live band and a few dances, all the better! Don’s career was in Quality Footwear and Foot Care. After 25 years at Burns Shoes Oshawa, he went on to manage stores in Pembroke, Smiths Falls, finally finding his best ‘fit’ at Walkwell Shoes Peterborough. He retired at 65, worked part time at The Hock Shop and volunteered at the Salvation Army Thrift Store making sure anything electrical was safe to use. Don enjoyed live auctions, yard sales, travel, bargain hunting at Vinnies followed by a delicious lunch at the Legion. He was an avid reader, dart player, history lover, admirer of antiques, audiophile, and skilled woodworker. He especially enjoyed camaraderie shared during meetings of the Kawartha Photographers Guild. Photography became a passion at an early age. From Film to Digital and fine print making, he was all in. Don lived a full and active life. Always the joker, Dad had the nurses laughing on the Thursday. One nurse said, ‘he is such a lovely man, you’d never think he was 92!” That was Dad! Sharp and full of fun despite the circumstances. Never one to shy away from sharing his Faith, he said he felt God had blessed him abundantly in this life. His last day was a rough one. Rest well Dad, you are finally home with Mom. Always know just how much you were truly loved. Sincere thanks to Dr. Ball and his team, skilled Nurses on 4A, Emergency Department, Paramedics and everyone who works to make PRHC such a great Hospital. In keeping with Don’s wishes, Cremation has already taken place. A Celebration of Life is being planned, date not yet determined. Sincere thanks to Jessica at Community Alternative Funeral Home for her compassion and understanding. If you wish to make a Donation in Don’s Memory, please consider The Humane Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Salvation Army. Please visit Don’s Book of Memories at www.communityalternative.ca