VICKERS
Don Nelson
November 4, 1938 - August 14, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Don Nelson Vickers on August 14, 2024, in Continuing Care, Drumheller after a lengthy illness from a Stroke and advanced Dementia.
Although he is gone, we feel immense joy knowing Don is free from all his afflictions and difficulties he dealt with. Born on November 4, 1938, in Drumheller, Don was the eldest of twin boys to Bruce and Sina Vickers, alongside his twin brother, Doug. He was later joined by his brothers, Rob and Richard. The four boys shared countless joyful memories growing up in the Valley, playing hockey and baseball, and working in the family grocery stores.
Don married the love of his life, Kathy Kobe, and together they welcomed their first son, Dave. He pursued higher education at universities in New Mexico and Montana where he received his Degree in Sociology. Upon returning to Alberta, they completed their family with the arrival of their daughter, Jill. Don cherished watching Dave play hockey and baseball and Jill play piano and figure skate.
Back in Drumheller, Don embarked on a distinguished career in Corrections at the Drumheller Institution. He held numerous significant positions and was honored with the Service of Canada Award for 30 years of unwavering dedication and service. Known to all as an honest and fair man to all. His reliability and commitment earned Don immense respect from his colleagues, rarely missing a day of work.
In retirement, Don enjoyed a slower paced life with his family. He spent many years meeting for coffee with friends at the Corner Café, spent weekends in his yard and relaxing and watching golf, hockey tennis and football games with a Lucky beer or two.
He enjoyed nature and spent many hours watching the different squirrels and birds visiting his feeders. He was always delighted to see his four grandchildren, Max, Daniel, Sydney and Athena. Don also attended many Baha’i functions with Kathy, forming a close bond and friendship with all the Bahai’s he met, making them his extended family.
Don had a special affection for Christmas with his family. Always bringing his famous scalloped potatoes to family gatherings at his parent’s, Bruce and Sina’s place where they enjoyed darts, dinner, and a few rum and coke. Though reserved, Don’s words were always valued for their wisdom. Don is survived by his loving wife Kathy, his children Dave and Jill, his brothers Rob (and Linda) Vickers and Rick Vickers, his son-in-law Pete Philis, his grandchildren, and many more family and friends.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 27 at 2 p.m. at the Knox United Church, Drumheller with private internment and luncheon to follow. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He has ascended to God on his immortal flight to the worlds beyond. A loving thank you to the physicians and staff on the “Pioneer Unit” in Continuing Care and the Drumheller Hospital, as well as the deeply caring staff on the Aurora Unit in Ponoka. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta or The Centennial Centre in Ponoka for Dementia and the Brain Injured.
Courtney-Winters Funeral Home in care of arrangements. 403-823-2666
