Donald McQueen Shaver

It is with great sadness, we regret to inform you of the peaceful passing of Donald McQueen Shaver on Monday, March 17, with his family by his side.

He leaves behind Catherine, his wife of 54 years. Together they shared a love of travel, quality time with friends and family, and unwavering commitment to their children and grandchildren.

A devoted dad to Amy (Patrick), Andrew (Kelly), and Michael, he nurtured them with strength, discipline, humour, and the constant reassurance of his abiding belief in their potential.

Donald’s beloved grandchildren Brayden, Nolan, Lauryn, and Alexander will remember his magical storytelling, guiding life lessons and positive words of encouragement.

He will be missed by his siblings Jill Searson (Bob), Wendy Shaver, Jonathon Shaver (Erica), and Ylva Byars (William), their children, and extended family in the United States, Sweden, and Scotland.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, Donald McQ. Shaver Sr. and his wife, Leila; Catherine ‘Rena’ Butler and her husband Ken; in-laws Ellen and John Dilly, and nephew Bill Armstrong.

Donald loved his family, his friends, and his farms. While family always came first, he was also an instinctive teacher and coach and reveled in sharing his knowledge and skills in the field or on the pitch. He was a philosopher, a historian, a politician, and a lover of nature and the environment. He was delightfully quick-witted, told eye-rolling dad jokes and terrible puns. He enjoyed solving puzzles, listening to music, and a good game of euchre or bridge. With a booming voice and resounding laugh, he was rarely without a smile on his face and left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be missed by many.

A celebration of Don’s life will take place at Whistle Bear Golf Course, 1316 Dickie Settlement Road, Cambridge, ON, Sunday, April 6 from 2 to 4 pm with speeches at 3 pm.

In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Donald’s commitment to community, please consider donating in his memory to The Food Bank of Waterloo Region.