Donald Douglas Wharin

It is with deep sadness that the family of Donald Douglas Wharin (Gramps / The Duck / Poops) announce his peaceful passing surrounded by family. He was predeceased by the love of his life and best friend Carol (Douglas) of 63 years who passed away Dec. 16, 2019. He leaves behind his five children: Chris (Cathy), Jeff (Rosheen), Jim (Erin), Jane (Joe), John (Kim). He will be greatly missed by his 13 grandchildren Ashley, Tara, Curtis, Kristen, Caitlin, Alexandra, Joshua, Megan, Max, Jennifer, Jamie, Jillian, Emily as well as his ten great grandchildren. Wesley, Don’s faithful canine companion for the last 9 years had predeceased him two weeks earlier. Don was the only child of Louella and Douglas Wharin. Don was born in Toronto and grew up in Etobicoke where he met Carol at Etobicoke Collegiate Institute where “The Duck” enthusiastically participated in basketball and football before going off to Western University and the University of Waterloo where he played collegiate football. Don joined his father at Bohne Spring Ind. and together they grew the business having purchased it from Bill Bohne. Don was instrumental in expanding the business into Etobicoke in 1985. Don was an avid golfer and long-time member of the Mississauga Golf and Country Club. For many winters Don also participated in curling at MG&CC and entered competitive bonspiels. When their kids were young, Don and Carol joined the Pine Ridge Ski Club where they made many lasting friendships. In the mid 70’s they bought the small “cabin” at Coulson to use as the ski chalet base for the family for many years until they bought their first cottage on Joe. In 1983 Don and Carol purchased their first home in Sarasota Florida where they would spend more and more of the winter months, Don was also a long-time member of the Gator Creek Golf Club in Sarasota. In 1993 he began a long and comfortable retirement, splitting his time between Oakville, Sarasota and their beautiful cottage on Lake Joseph where he and Carol would welcome family and friends for many years. One of Don’s adventures took him on a solo trip around the world so that he could see all the sights as Carol wasn’t big on travelling. Don was a man of few words but he was always honest and was a good mentor. The legacy of Don and Carol will live on in the generosity they have shared with their family.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to staff of Thistlecreek and in particular to Alexandra, Mary Lou, Eva, Violet, Gina and Delia who provided exceptional care and kindness to Don in the last two years. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Oakville Club for both Don and Carol in the Spring.