Obituary of Donald Campbell Strachan

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Campbell Strachan. With loving family members surrounding him, Don passed away peacefully on Monday, February 22, 2016 at the age of 72. Don will be lovingly remembered by his wife of over 48 years, Donna (Wootton) Strachan. Forever remembered by his devoted daughters and their families: Devonne Strachan, husband Ian and children Trevor and Sabrina; Denise Bates, husband Mike and their daughter, Grandpa’s “little sweetie” Charlotte. Don was the oldest of the “Norwich triplets” born September 7, 1943. He will be sadly missed by his brothers Tom (Pauline), John (Margaret) and Gerald (Stella) Strachan. Fondly remembered by nieces and nephews: Grant (Carole), Jeff (Andrea) and Greg Strachan and great-nieces and nephews: Ashley, Jeremy, Derek and Megan Strachan. Don will be remembered always by his brothers and sisters-in-law: Mary, Doug (Dianne) and John (Sandra) Wootton, along with his seven nieces and nephews and ten great-nieces and nephews. Don is predeceased by his parents Donald and Irene (Gilbert) Strachan. A native of Norwich, Ontario, Don moved to London after high school and attended Westervelt Business College. He then enjoyed a career at Supertest for 8 years. After marrying Donna and starting his family, Don furthered his career at General Motors (EDS) for over 20 years. After retirement in 1998, he enjoyed working part time at MacMaster Chevrolet until 2015. Don and Donna purchased their 34 acre farm in 1978. Together they enjoyed farm life and made many fond memories. They grew corn, soybeans and winter wheat and cared for 500 laying hens. Don was actively involved in the agricultural community and had great friendships with many neighbours and local families. In 1999, Don and Donna purchased a family cottage on Whitestone Lake. Don enjoyed many boat rides and his lake front view while relaxing on the dock. He loved to tell stories of spotting wildlife, in particular, the northern loon and moose. Don always wanted a place for family and friends to gather to share stories and laughter. A lifetime lover of sports, Don shared a great passion for horse racing and hockey with his brothers. His love for hockey continued when he became a season ticket holder for the London Knights in 2002. Don met up with his triplet brothers, other family and close friends during the season and rarely missed a game. Don’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the 5th floor Palliative Care Team at Parkwood Hospital, the VON Middlesex-Elgin Palliative Care Team and Saint Elizabeth Home Health Care. Friends and family will be received at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Thursday from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. where a celebration of Don’s life will be held on Friday, February 26, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. Memorial donations in memory of Don may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, Alzheimer Society of London & Middlesex, Parkwood Institute Palliative Care or the VON Middlesex-Elgin.