Donald George Neilson

Don is survived by his loving wife Isabel, his beloved children Scott Neilson (Denise), and Valerie Coulombe (Craig) and adored grandchildren, Jordan and Matthew Neilson, and Lauren and Brendan Coulombe. He was a loving brother and is also survived by his sister Karen Gould and his brother Paul Neilson (Dolores), as well as nieces Shawna, Sharon, and Lesley and nephews Eric and Kevin. He is also survived by his niece Rebecca Haubrich (Trevor) and their sons Luke and Liam.

Don was predeceased by his mother Antonia, brother Gerald and brother-in-law Fred Gould.

Don was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta and enjoyed a thirty-seven-year career with Gulf Oil Canada, now Conoco Phillips Canada Resources, retiring in 1992. He was active for many years in the Purchasing Management Association of Canada, now Supply Chain Canada, and in the Alberta Institute of PMAC. In addition to being a fellow of the National Association and the Alberta Institute, he held the position of President of the National Association in 1998. He and Isabel relocated to Toronto for almost a year to temporarily fill the position of Executive Vice President of the Association.

Not one to stay retired long, he spent the following years with a consulting firm, and taught evening courses in Supply Management at the University of Calgary. Don finally fully retired in 2007.

Isabel and Don were married more than 60 years, meeting at a Grey Cup party in 1961. He was a caring and considerate father who always put the needs of his children before his own. At one time he placed his career advancement on the backburner for the sake of his kids, turning down a position in Toronto to avoid family relocation so Valerie and Scott could stay with their friends in Calgary.

Many of Don’s happiest times were attending Scott and Valerie’s sporting events. Later he loved watching his grandchildren partake in their different activities, including basketball, volleyball, hockey, lacrosse, football and dance recitals. He never missed an opportunity to sit in the stands and cheer on his family. As a lifelong Calgarian, Don always supported the Flames and the Stampeders.

Don was very interested and engaged in the careers, education and interests of all of his family members. He stayed current on news, events or trends impacting those around him and sent them information or articles so they could have meaningful discussions the next time they spoke. Don generously volunteered his time and gave back to the community. He was particularly proud to be a White Hatter at the Calgary International Airport. He loved his Tuesday morning shifts and the good friends he made during his 10 years there. Although his shift didn’t begin until 9:30, he usually arrived by 8:30 as he couldn’t wait to get there and be with his team.

As avid travelers, Don and Isabel enjoyed spending time in Spain, Italy, France and England before discovering the joy of cruising as a way to visit other faraway places. They sailed many seas over 15 years and have many wonderful memories of all their adventures. Thanks to Isabel’s cousin Rosemary for introducing them to this mode of travel.

One of Don’s favourite things was to open his home to others, and he loved to host dinner parties and backyard barbeques, which always included competitive games like lawn skiing, ladder golf or bean bag toss. Scott and Valerie’s friends were always welcome when they were growing up and Don always made sure the fridge was full of pop and the cupboards full of chips.

Don lived a full life and will be remembered with much love and affection by his family and friends. Don and Isabel always felt truly blessed to have such a beautiful, caring family and amazing long-time friends and neighbours.

We extend our thanks to Don’s oncologist, Dr. Doreen Anuli Ezeife and her staff, the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and his family physician, Dr. Matthew Borgstrom, for their outstanding care and support.

At Don’s request, there will be no funeral service. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date.

If friends so desire, donations can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Cremation in the care of Foster's Garden Chapel.