Donald BOYLE

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BOYLE: Donald Earl Boyle. A memorial service, with friends and family, will be held at Trinity United Church, Brandon, Saturday, September 26, 2009, 1:00 p.m. to celebrate the life of Don Boyle. Don was born on August 25, 1924 at Portage la Prairie, to Jessie (Ross) and Earl Robinson Boyle. He was schooled in Portage and completed his certificate in Accountancy in 1948. Don was a WWII veteran, with active service for his country with the RCAF in England, Belgium, Germany and Holland from 1943 to 1946. Although he never spoke of his service, he wore his medals with pride at annual remembrance services. Post war - Don's career was spent as a Federal civil servant with Indian Affairs and the RCMP at Portage, Hodgson, Dauphin and Brandon. Many lasting friendships developed with his workmates. In 1953 Don married Helen Sklepowich - a teacher who caught his eye, but initially resisted his advances. Don was a family person, always interested in what his children, their partners, and the grandchildren were doing. Many fun filled holidays were had camping, fishing, exploring across Canada, and at the family cabin at Pelican Lake, and the children’s homes in Regina and Airdrie. Many miles were devoted driving to kid's and grandkid's activites at ski hills, boating and sailing at the lake, and soccer fields. The cabin was a place of relaxation, where Don would hide out on the back deck reading the paper from cover to cover. Mealtime was very important to Don, and no matter what the meal was - it was not complete without dessert. His love of pie and ice cream has been passed down to his grandchildren. Since retirement, celebrations and tours were spent in Europe related to the Liberation of Holland. Many new friendships were kindled. Don was an active volunteer in Brandon, particularly at Trinity Church. Don was involved in Toastmasters, square danced, and had many enjoyable years with the Boy Scouts. Don was the handyman extraordinaire - around home, at the cabin (which he built) and on relatives' farms. Don fixed everything - or spent much time finding the right guy to do the job. At age 85, Don was still living at home and was reluctant to consider moving. The amazing network of friends and neighbours and care workers facilitated his desire to stay at home. This network worked well until recently when old age finally did catch-up. On September 23, 2009 Don passed away at the Assiniboine Centre. Don is survived by one brother Harvey of Victoria; his three sons: Merle, wife Deanna (Chavich), their children Connor and Heather; Lorne, wife Margaret (Baker), their children Stephanie and Spencer; and Jonathan, wife Kristen and their children Cooper and Sadie. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Trinity Church Memorial Fund or to Breast Cancer Research.

As published in Brandon Sun on Sep 25, 2009