Donald James O' Brien

Donald was born August 2, 1925 in Regina, Saskatchewan and passed away October 13, 2012 with his loving partner Shirley Simmons by his side. Don is also survived by two Grandchildren: Kristen Korecki and Steven Korecki of Kelowna, B.C., and their father Keith Korecki of Kelowna, B.C.; brothers Jim (Helen) O’Brien of Toronto, Ontario, Douglas (Dona) O’Brien of Flin Flon, Manitoba; sisters Irene Mooney of Victoria, B.C. and Lois Hannah of Regina, Saskatchewan. He will also be missed by his extended family Sharon & Robert Rajotte of West Kelowna and Randy Pinchbeck of Powell River, B.C. and their families. Don was predeceased by his wife Freda (nee Weigl) and daughters Donna and Shelley, sister Tressa Wilson of Victoria, B.C., brother Gerald O’Brien and parents Tom & Emma O’Brien. Don was raised in Riceton, Saskatchewan where his parents were farmers. He attended Cross Country school and the high school in Riceton. He was employed as a traffic officer and a salesman at Grant Industries and Weldwood in Regina and Yorkton, later moving to Kelowna. Donald was an honorary member of Knights of Columbus and a valuable supporter of the Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing cards and the occasional game of golf especially when he and Shirley would go up to Fairmont Hot Springs. He struggled with Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years and resided for almost 5 years at the Village of Smith Creek where he received wonderful care. His Irish sense of humor and gentle spirit was with him always. Thank you to the amazing staff of Webber unit for all their compassionate love and attention. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in West Kelowna, B.C. on Saturday October 20, 2012 at 1:00 P.M. with Father Wayne Pflieger officiating. Interment will take place at a later date at Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery in Regina, Saskatchewan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Society of B.C. 865 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 6P6. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.valleyviewfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements entrusted to VALLEYVIEW FUNERAL HOME, Honoured Provider of Dignity Memorial 250-765-3147.