BRIGGS
Donald "Digger" Glen
February 20, 1938 - August 1, 2008
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving husband, father, papa, brother and friend. Donald "Digger" Briggs left us on August 1st after a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer.
Don is lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Loretta, his children Heather and husband Tom, Ken and wife Diana and his five grandsons Michael, Dan, Blake, Joey and Dennis. He also leaves behind sister Marilynne (Doug) and brothers George (Marie) and Earl (Carol). He was predeceased by his father Glen Blake, mother "Dot" Briggs, stepfather Harry Briggs and brother Adrian Briggs.
Don was born in Lethbridge, Alberta and moved to Cumberland as a young child. He was a proud resident of Cumberland and displayed his pride in the community through his involvement. This includes his time with the Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department, coaching various sporting teams, being a founding member of the Fire Safety House and involvement in numerous civic committees.
Don had many occupations as a young man until he eventually found his calling driving a propane truck. He was proud that he could always get the propane to his customers through all kinds of weather and road conditions up and down the island.
After two heart attacks, Don beat all the odds and received a heart transplant on July 20, 1988. He never took this gift for granted and lived his life to the fullest. In his retirement Digger committed himself to teaching children how to safely escape a fire. He loved to play cards with his friends and became quite the Texas Hold'em competitor. Digger and his buddies like to discuss and solve all of the world's problems (or at least Cumberland's) over coffee.
Don loved his family and his greatest enjoyment came from being able to spend time with them all.
We will never forget the care Don recently received on the 3rd floor of St. Joseph's Hospital as well as all of those in the health care system who cared for him over the years.
A celebration of Digger's life was held on August 6, 2008 at the Cumberland Cultural Centre from 1:00-3:00 pm. Comox Valley Funeral Home Services, 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay, BC entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations in the name of Donald "Digger" Briggs to St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation/Palliative Care Facility, 2137 Comox Ave., Comox, BC V9M 1P2. The family also asks that you consider organ donation.