MacFarlane, Donald Robert
In Loving Memory of Donald Robert MacFarlane
On September 29, 2024, our beloved father, Donald Robert MacFarlane, passed away peacefully at home in Cambridge, Ontario, surrounded by his family. He was 91.
Dad was born on September 7, 1933, in Almonte, Ontario, the third of eight children born to Mary Jane and William MacFarlane. From an early age, he embraced the values of hard work and family, lessons that shaped his life.
At 18, Dad began working as a clerk for the Bank of Nova Scotia, where he dedicated 40 years of service, eventually retiring as a Senior Vice President. His work ethic, integrity, and leadership earned him admiration from everyone who knew him. However, his unwavering dedication to his family truly defined him.
In 1961, Dad married the love of his life, Therese (Faubert), and together they built a life rooted in love and laughter for 63 years. Dad was a devoted father and a steady source of wisdom and support for me, Sharon (Shawn), my brother, Stephen (Kristin), and my sister, Christine. Whether at home or work, he was a man of quiet strength who led by example. He was also the proud grandfather of Briana, Cameron, and Hugh, who adored their “Grampa” and will miss him dearly. Dad leaves behind his surviving brother, sisters, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Dad cherished the simple things in life—fishing and paddling in northern Ontario, sharing stories, and enjoying time with those he loved. His wisdom, humour, and unconditional support will forever remain in our hearts.
Our family would like to express our deep gratitude to The Fairview Community Care Group and The Cambridge Palliative Care and Frail Elderly team, especially Dr. Sandore, Benedetta, and Sarah.
Dad requested a simple celebration of his life with our immediate family, which will take place on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 1 pm, at Holy Cross Crematorium. In place of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Waterloo.
Dad, your love and strength will live on in all of us. You were the heart of our family, and we miss you deeply. We take comfort in knowing you are at peace.
Dear aunt terry, Stephen, Christine, Sharon
I have so many great memories of time with all of you and uncle Don. Many of the memories from camp including the summer Stephen stayed and worked with us – long ago now. I think my fondest memories of Don are the many visits he made to camp after he retired. Dad and Don working, laughing, sharing old stories of temagami and philosophizing on life. The occasional drink as well. A great joy to sit back and observe and prod for more details every now and again.
In 2004 we went on a canoe trip to the nipissing river in Algonquin. Dad, Don, myself and my good friend Dave. This is a tough trip into the remotest section of the park. Very few make it to the river from round lake in one day- we did. Don was 70 years old when we did it. I was 42 and I can tell you I was dragging. He pulled water, portaged and was great company. He must have been hurting but you would never know it. He also put us to shame by catching the biggest trout on the trip! I’m attaching a picture of dad and Don from that trip.
Uncle Don was a kind and thoughtful man, I am proud to have known him.
Love from all of us and know we are thinking of you.
Randy, Meme, Chris, Emily
Briana, Sharon, Shawn & Cameron,
Please accept our sincerest condolences.
Sending love and caring thoughts your way.
Love, The Burdon Family