Donald Burnett Reid

Don Reid passed away peacefully at the age of 91, on November 13, 2017, at Parkstone Enhanced Care, Halifax. Born in Superior, Wisconsin, Don was the only son of the late Allan and Jean Reid and grew up in Winnipeg, MB. He will be sadly missed by daughter, Lorabeth Ritch and son-in-law, Murray Ritch; son, Tim and his partner, Cathy Doucet; favourite grandson, Stuart Ritch; sister, Jean Ann Green (Toronto). He was predeceased by his loving wife and best friend of 58 years, Betty-Kay. Don was a graduate of Washington State University and did post graduate work at Michigan State University in Wildlife Biology. Following University, Don worked as a station biologist with the Northeastern Wildlife Station in Fredericton NB. He subsequently made a career switch and moved to Halifax where he worked for 43 years as a financial planner with Investors Group. Although Don had much success during his career with Investors, he was more proud of learning to speak again, with the help of gifted therapists, after a stroke in 1996, which left him without any speech whatsoever. Don was a member of Rockingham United Church where he served as an elder for 10 years during which time he was a representative to Presbytery and he was President of the Halifax Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association from 1981-1992. An active Mason, he was a long term member of Virgin Lodge, A.F. and A.M. and a Philae Shriner. All his life Don took great pleasure in children, dogs and gardening. Unbeknownst to his own children at the time, for many years Don dressed up as Santa Claus and visited the kids in the neighbourhood before they went to bed on Christmas Eve. With his big booming voice and laugh he was perfect for the part. After Don & Betty Kay sold their home and moved into a condo, Don remarked that “it’s a nice enough place but there aren’t any kids or dogs.” Although he faced significant health challenges for many years which ultimately rendered him bedridden, Don retained his spirit, good nature, and sense of humour. He will be remembered as a gentleman, a devoted husband, a wonderful father and proud grandfather. He brought much love, joy and laughter into our lives. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will held at a later date. The family wishes to thank the staff on Flemming Way at Parkstone for the care and kindness they showed to Don. They also thank Don’s friends at Rockingham United Church and First Baptist Church who visited him regularly, brought him his favourite treats, and brightened his days. Donations in Don’s memory may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or a charity of choice.