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Donald (Don) Lawrence Woodcock

August 26, 2011

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WOODCOCK, Donald (Don) Lawrence

1930-2011


Don passed away on August 26, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife Kareen, son Ian (Dale), daughters Linda Woodcock (John Cowan) and Denise Norman (Tom); his sister Sheila Smith, and his grandchildren Patrick Woodcock, Krystin Selfridge, Zachary and Jesse Norman, Regan and Duncan Cowan, great grandchildren Kaiya and Payton Woodcock. There are also many aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was much loved and we will miss him dearly.


Born in Minnedosa, Manitoba his early years revolved around Rosebank, his grandfather’s farm. Many of his best stories tell of the challenges and pleasures of rural life on the farm. It was during this period that he formed his great love of the outdoors, respect for all living things and a deep commitment to the preservation of the environment.


At age 21 he joined the R.C.A.F. It took him to many parts of Canada and many corners of the world. He served in the air force for 26 years, leaving in 1976 to pursue a freelance writing career. His nature column, Timber Doodles, appeared in the Ottawa Journal for a decade and was followed with articles in various magazines. His writing and photography received national awards and he had many fans.


Don had many interests and passions. An avid outdoorsman he loved canoeing, skiing, camping, and hiking. He launched the first Venture Scout troop in 1963, in Nova Scotia. He worked on numerous environmental preservation efforts and was a founding member of the Comox Valley Environmental Council. He was recognized for his work to preserve fish habitat and participated in many other similar endeavours in each of the areas where he lived.


A marvelous father, grandfather, husband and friend, he shared all that he loved about the outdoors and the wonders of life. He showed us how to revel in the magic of the smallest moments and find joy in the world around us.


Don was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Courtenay, Comox Valley Environmental Council and Comox Valley Natural History Society.


Our thanks go to Dr. Fitzpatrick, Dr. Thompson, the palliative care team and the many caring home support workers and hospice volunteers.


In lieu of flowers, donations to any of the following would be a credit to his memory: Comox Valley Naturalists Society, Kiwanis Club of Courtenay, Nature Trust BC, or the Canadian Cancer Society.


A memorial service will be held at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Comox on Saturday September 3rd at 2 o’clock, followed by a reception at the Kiwanis Village in Courtenay.




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