Michael "Don" Donald O'Driscoll

Michael Donald O'Driscoll "Don" 86, Halifax passed away peacefully at Parkstone on June 19th , surrounded by his children. Born in Bay Bulls, NL, he was the son of the late Harry O'Driscoll and Bridget O'Driscoll (Drew). He is predeceased by his loving and devoted wife Effie of 57 years and his infant son David. Don is survived by his children Karen, Halifax; Sheilagh (Eduardo), Burlington; Mark, Montreal; Robert (Shari), Smiths Falls. Grandchildren Katie, Nick, Megan and Jacob. Brother, Kevin, Bay Bulls,NL, and Sisters, Ita Carter of Witless Bay NL, Patsy Williams of the Goulds,NL, Alverna Simpson of Rothesay, NB, and Winnie Nickerson of Halifax. Don and Effie were also close with Effie's sisters Hannah Smith, and Mona Gillespie of St. John's, NL, and many nieces and nephews (whom he also cherished and was delighted when one -or better several-could join our family for a Sunday Dinner; he loved to hear the adventures of the younger generation trying to make their way in the world – he was a valued mentor in these conversations).

Don was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease in recent years. Our family is forever grateful to Don's son Rob and wife Shari for giving Don the best possible love and care during his early to mid stages of Dementia.

Don was born on October 4th, 1933 in Bay Bulls, Newfoundland. He was the oldest of 7 children, attended Memorial University and began his 38 year career with Imperial Oil(Esso) in 1951.Don started in the mail room in St. John’s, was promoted through numerous roles in sales and marketing ,was transferred around the Atlantic provinces , finishing his successful career in 1990 as Regional Sales Manager, Atlantic.

Don met the Love of his Life, Effie, in St. John’s, and they married in 1959. They were a true example of people who were meant to be together, who fell in love and stayed in love. The two were devout Catholics and made helping others a priority. Dad continued to use his extensive business acumen to successfully fundraise for local and global causes in his retirement - he was the United Way Representative for Esso as well as leading fundraising for Father Francis in Africa and Kim Harpers Christian Orphanage in the Philippines. Don was the President of the Saint Lawrence Parish Council, and a respected business leader who was endlessly generous with his time and business acumen; he was a strong collaborator to ensuring the financial health of Saint Lawrence Parish, its’ eventual sale and the subsequent construction of Saint Benedict Parish Don was also an active member of The Knights of Columbus, and he was delighted to support Effie as she taught English as a second language to adults bringing their families to Canada and they were leaders in the Alpha Program.

Effie & Don loved to travel and spend time with immediate and extended family. Whether it was Florida (we children and grandchildren often joined them there), the annual summer trip to Newfoundland (Bay Bulls and Branch were highlights of our childhood that endure to this day) or international travel to Spain /Portugal, ski vacations and numerous cruises with Mark and Jacob.

Don was well known as an articulate, handsome and engaging gentleman, and enjoyed his life-long friendships-Brian Maloney and Don spent many summer days at Ashburn Golf Club. Len Coughlan, Andy Power, Carl Brown, and Archie Mills were treasured friends...

Don was a man who made time for others, who valued others, was quick with a smile and a kind word. He delighted in making friends of strangers. He was a wonderful father, husband and citizen of the world – he made our world better for what he instilled in us – we are forever grateful to have had him in our lives for the time we did – we only wish it could have been longer and the last years not have been so profoundly impacted by his dementia – though in a testament to Don he maintained his dignity and gentlemanliness though-out his entire life.

We are sincerely grateful for our Dad receiving the best of loving care from the Nursing staff on Point Pleasant Way at Parkstone. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Nova Scotia. A Celebration of Don's life will be held when circumstances allow. Condolences can be made online at www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.