In Celebration of

Donald George Brydges

December 5, 1928 -  September 24, 2025


It is with a heavy heart that the family announces the passing of Donald George Brydges. He left this world in the late hours of September 24, 2025 in Toronto Ontario leaving behind a legacy of love and family.

Don aka “Papa” will be profoundly missed by his adoring wife Wrenn Oliver; two devoted children Jim Brydges and Christine Hains; his grandsons Wesley Hains (Victoria), Taylor and Morgan Moskalyk; his great grandson Hunter Hains; his step-children Elisabeth Oliver, Mark Oliver (Steve) and Matthew Oliver (Kim); and step-grandchildren Ben and Katelyn Oliver; reunited forever in eternity with his children’s mother Kathleen May and eldest son Jeff Brydges.

With the goal of always trying to make those around him smile, the joy and positivity that he radiated was truly inspiring. He was a kind man who endeared himself to all with his humor and personality – outgoing and social; he had a natural ability to connect with anyone. Along with his love of family and friends, he was known as a mentor, an avid reader and birdwatcher, enjoying deep political discussions, his involvement with the Friends of Fort York, and spending time at his favourite place in the world, the family cottage on Bass Lake. Up until the end of his life, he was as sharp as they come and a man of limitless humility. Although his absence leaves a void in our hearts, his spirit lives on within the cherished memories we will forever hold dear.

He will be buried in the family plot alongside his parents George and Vyda Brydges at the Parklawn Cemetery during a private ceremony.

A Celebration of his life will be held for those who wish to honour him, on Monday, October 20, 2025 from 2 – 5 p.m. at Turner & Porter – Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto.

A special thank you to the staff and caregivers at Christie Gardens. During his retirement years, Don was especially grateful for his wonderful home alongside his darling Wrenn.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations to be made to his favourite charity, The Canadian Cancer Society.

Guestbook 

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Bruce Bridgeford (Former neighbour)

Entered October 1, 2025 from Tottenham, ON

Our thoughts are with all of Don's family & friends, but especially with Jim & Christine. It doesn't seem that long ago (but almost 60 years) that we were tearing around the neighbourhood after dinner engrossed in marathon games of tag. New Year's was always a core group of the Simpsons, our mom & dad & your parents. Your dad was always the life of the party with the most infectious laugh ever ... 💔

Adrian Stasiuk (Family friend)

Entered October 1, 2025 from Toronto

My heart is broken, thinking of Don. He was a funny man, cheerful as can be.. His passing was blissful and after so long, he found his new mate, his life got strong. He left with a smile on his face, knowing that he’ll eventually eat that wedding cake. Not only remembering that he now has two mates. Through heaven his spirit remains alive, up high in the sky, he’ll have two loving wives.

Gary Veal (Friend of family)

Entered October 1, 2025 from Elliot Lake

Truly a gentleman, friend and an inspiration of how to live your life and treat all people with respect. R.I.P. Don you will be missed.

Kevin Duggan (Friend)

Entered October 6, 2025 from Barrie, ON

To me, Don was a friend, a mentor, a golf partner, a Master Chef (BBQ-er) and a father figure. He offered me great advice when needed and I always valued his opinion.

I enjoyed our cottage chats about life and work while occasionally sipping on a generous "Don Brydges shot" of rum and Pepsi. I loved sitting by his fire pit with the cottage neighbours, telling funny stories.

During my tenure at Bass Lake, I was there for him and he was there for me...always. I will miss him.

"What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we loved deeply becomes a part of us."
Helen Keller


Paul R Brydges (Family)

Entered October 7, 2025 from Guelph

Janet, Mason, Cooper and I wish the family peace in this difficult time. We all enjoyed visiting the family at Bass Lake for a family reunion with my parents Bill and Ramona Brydges. Dad always talked about his time at Bass Lake and Uncle George and his fun cousin Don.
We hope Don's never ending supply of positive energy will help to carry you through these times.

Photos 

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