Donald Arnold Pearson

1945 - 2013

With his devoted wife Brenda and his family by his side, Don passed away on Thursday March 14, 2013 at the Seven Oaks General Hospital.

Don was predeceased by his parents Arnold and Frances (nee Crawford); and is survived by his beloved wife Brenda; his daughters Megan (Chad Johnston), Kristie (Doug Pollard), grandchildren Aleta, Max and Parker; brother Art (Alison), sister Jane (Tom McDonald), brother John (Jane). Don is also survived by Brenda’s family: step-sons Ken (Tamara); Kerry; Paul (Brenda); Sisters-in-law Edie Slater (Tye Gregg); Myrna Breen (Kent); Brothers-in–law Eldon McRae (Barb); Gary McRae (Debbie); David McRae (Leigh); Terry McRae (Lori); step-grandchildren Ryan, Keegan, Devin, Chloe. Don leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved very much.

Don graduated Churchill High School in Riverview; received Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Urban Studies, University of Winnipeg; Natural Resources Institute (Premasters), University of Manitoba; Geography Department Graduate Studies (MA) in Regional Economic Planning, University of Alberta; and was a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners since 1979. But Don always said the best education he received was working with Frank Wiener (Hungry I Agency) booking bands from Kenny Rogers, Irish Rovers to the Supremes across the country. This partnership paid for the university degrees and left a lifetime of memories.

Growing up in Earl Grey and Riverview, Don excelled at any sport he played: hockey, lacrosse, baseball, track and wrestling, and was the captain of almost every team he played on, and it was in sports where he learned to be a leader, a skill that served him well through a lifetime of entrepreneurship. Don would often make a sincere effort to mentor and support his staff when he recognized their potential.

Don was tough as nails and saw any setback as purely temporary, whether physical pain in sports or adversity in business or life. Any letdown was simply another challenge to overcome rather than an issue to dwell on.

After a brain tumour in 2000, Don's life changed dramatically. During his health setback the strength he drew from his relationship with Brenda became even more evident. Their love and devotion sustained him through thirteen difficult years. Settling on the McRae family farm in Clandeboye gave Don the peace and quiet he needed to heal, and his pet cats and puppy Tessa gave Don many hours of entertainment.

Special thanks to: Archdeacon Mawejje; the staff at Seven Oaks Hospital; his homecare aids Cheryl Hartfield, Stephanie Kirner, Jill Bright; friend Susan Steeves; and especially his grandson Ryan McRae for countless hours of support.

In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral. Burial of ashes will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Don's memory can be made to: The Humane Society or animal shelter; St. George Wakefield Church Box 219 Clandeboye Mb R0C 0P0; or Bill Madder Outdoor Athletic Complex c/o Churchill High School 510 Hay St. Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2L6. You can also donate online at http://madder2011.ca

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