Obituary of J. Donald (Donnie) Wilson

1938 – 2022 

With heavy hearts, the family of Don Wilson sadly announces his passing on Friday, November 25, 2022. 

Donnie was a devoted husband, supportive father, and loving grandfather. He is missed by Joan, his wife and best friend of 60 years, and their children, Linda MacDonald (Dan), John Wilson (Tracy Maxwell), and Steve Wilson (Leah). He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Katelyn Patterson (Jared), Melissa MacDonald (Billy Ebbels), Wilson MacDonald (Sally Parker), Dylan Wilson, Brodie Wilson (Lauren Batcho), and Lexi, Lily and Vince Wilson. Donnie was delighted by the recent addition of his first great-grandchild, Penelope Joan Patterson. Also left to cherish his memory are Donnie’s brother Alan Wilson (Lori) of Vernon, BC, and many other extended family members. Donnie was predeceased by his parents Russell Wilson, Lillian (Billie) and Clair Nabors, and his sister Betty Jean.

A native Calgarian, Donnie was immensely proud of his hometown and worked energetically for the betterment of the city he loved. He first rode a horse in the Stampede parade at the age of six and volunteered for the Calgary Stampede for more than 40 years, ultimately serving as President and Chairman of the Board. His tireless efforts and quiet generosity benefited many local charities and countless Calgarians.

Donnie enjoyed 34 years working for Prudential Steel in a career that started in pipe sales and culminated as President & CEO. He was a cowboy, a city slicker, an accomplished skier, a competitive cattle penner, an enthusiastic golfer, an industry mentor, a dedicated volunteer, an immaculate dresser, the life of the party, the consummate host, and a faithful Flames and Stampeders fan.

Donnie had many passions, but none greater than his relationships with family and friends. A true ‘people person’, he often said, “old friends are gold friends” and he had many. Lifelong friendships were forged through his neighbourhood connections, the cattle penning community, the energy industry, membership at the Calgary Golf & Country Club, winters spent golfing in Arizona, and the Calgary Stampede. Donnie truly valued his friends and continued to make new ones right up to the very end of his life. Family meant everything to Donnie and he took genuine interest and pride in each of his children and grandchildren. They were the joy of his life.

We fondly remember Donnie for his loyalty, warmth and generosity. It’s hard to imagine our world without him in it, but we celebrate with gratitude a life well lived.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, December 2 at 10:30 a.m. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Wilson’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

If friends so desire, please consider a donation in Donnie’s memory to the Calgary Stampede Foundation, an organization near and dear to his heart. Donations may be made securely online at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/4426?v1=true or sent to Calgary Stampede Foundation, Box 1060, Station M, Calgary AB T2P 2K8.

Thank you to the staff at Amica (Britannia) who took such good care of Donnie in his final months.

In living memory of J. Donald Wilson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Click Here to View J. Donald Wilson's Memorial Card

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