ROBERTSON
Donald James
July 21, 1948 - April 11, 2022
Don (Donald) James Robertson was born on July 21,1948 in Toronto, Ontario. He was the first born son of Walter and Laura Robertson. He is survived by his two children; his Son, John (Rayleen) and his Daughter, Laura (Chris). His two brothers Earl (Marion) and Tom (Jan). His grandchildren, Katherine (Josh), Kayde, Sarah (Mat), Steven, David, Baylee, Sean (Shae), Great Grandchildren Eric and Emmett; also many other nephews, nieces, cousins. Don was predeceased by his beloved wife Elaine on December 7, 2007, his Father Walter in 2012 and his Mother Laura in 2013.
Shortly after his birth, Walter and Laura moved their growing family (followed by Earl then Tom) to Stoney Mountain, Manitoba where Walter gained employment
at the Stony Mountain Institution and Don and his brothers spent many happy years attending Stonewall Collegiate and being raised in a warm, friendly, small town atmosphere.
As a teenager, Don found his passion playing football for the Stonewall Rams as the Captain of the defence playing middle linebacker. He even had the opportunity and was scouted to go semi pro by the Winnipeg Hawkeyes.... but this plan was thwarted when he met the love of his life, Elaine in the Polo Park mall parking lot in 1968. It was love at first sight, Don said. She became his new dream.
The two fell in love and married on March 29, 1969 at the Knox United Church in Winnipeg. Their son John was born in September of 1969 and daughter Laura in September of 1972.
Don and Elaine moved to Drumheller in September of 1974 with their young family and Don started work in the purchasing department of the Drumheller Institution, eventually being promoted to Chief of Material management before retiring in 2005, to take care of his ailing wife.
Elaine and Don shared a wonderful long and loving marriage, and he was devastated by her untimely passing.
Don was a very involved community member; it was through his great love of supporting youth and the sport of football that he co-founded the Drumheller Titans Football association in the Fall of 1994. The team starting their first playing season fall of 1996. He spent many, many countless hours at the field coaching,
mentoring, but most of all, teaching the importance of teamwork and good sportsmanship. He continued helping out the team even until his passing, ordering the team jackets and speaking at yearly banquets.
Don loved people and he would make you feel like you were the most important person in the room. He loved his family with all his heart and was always there to listen and support without judgment. He was always quick with a word of praise, a big smile and a warm hug. He mentored countless people throughout the years and many have fond memories of Don and his huge heart.
To say he will be missed is an understatement; he was adored.
Our hearts are aching but we are comforted knowing Dad, that you are with the love of your life “Elaina” and dancing with her once more.
Mom and Dad’s song
Save The Last Dance for me – The Drifters
“Cause don’t forget who’s taking you home...
And in who’s arms you’re gonna be....
So darlin’, save the last dance for me”
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at the Drumheller Church of the Nazarene on April 23, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. 627 6th St. E, Drumheller, Alberta.
A private graveside internment for immediate family will be held in advance.
The family would ask if anyone chooses in lieu of flowers to donate to Drumheller Regional Health Authority - Palliative Care - in honour of Elaine at 351 - 9th Street NW, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y1.
Courtney-Winters Funeral Home in care of arrangements. 403-823-2666.
