Passed away suddenly on Monday, March 27, 2023 at the age of 77. Much loved partner of Barbara Da Silva. He is survived by his daughters Karolyn Stankiewicz (Jeffrey Thelen), Dianne Stankiewicz (Stéphane Leblond), and Allison Jack (Shannon Mitchell), as well as Barb’s children David Da Silva (Kristyn) and Nicole Da Silva (Tony Azevedo). He was proud of all his grandchildren: Tylar Mertens, Paige Mertens, Austin Thelen, Chase Thelen, Amanda Stankiewicz, Sadie Mitchell-Jack, Daniel Da Silva, Madison Da Silva, and Antonio Azevedo.

Don was born and raised in Toronto, the doted-upon only child of Richard (“Barney”) and Jean Jack. Don worked for Bell Canada for 35 years. In retirement, he drove long haul deliveries, crossing Canada and the US with Barb, having many adventures along the way.
Don loved music, especially old country, and learned how to play (and sing) all his favourite songs on the guitar. At the family cottage on Stoney Lake, he enjoyed fishing and waterskiing during the day, and playing rounds of the game “Win, Lose or Drink” at night (like Pictionary, but a little sloppier). He was an avid reader throughout his life, and liked Monty Python and terrible science fiction B-movies. He was a devoted and thoughtful dad, the kind of dad that showed up for anything, even if he didn’t understand it at all. Don would be friends with anyone. He was warm, witty, and outgoing, and above all, he loved making people laugh.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Saturday, April 1 from 2-6 p.m. at Don & Barb’s condo.
Please contact Barb for information.