Date of Death: December 28, 2023
It is with profound sadness and shock that we announce the sudden passing of our brother and uncle, John Edward Donaldson of Broadview in the Regina General Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023 at the age of 72. John (“Unc”) passed away surrounded by his family after being transported by Stars Air Ambulance from the Kipling Hospital. Despite suffering traumatic injuries due to a tragic farm accident, John’s strength was immense and he stayed with us until we could say goodbye.
John was predeceased by his parents, Helen and Leon Donaldson. He is survived by his sister, Sharon Schmidt (Allan) of Regina; niece Alisha Elchuk (Tyler, children Reid and Brooke) of Calgary; nephews, Graham Schmidt (Jeanette, children Ava and Owen) of Boston and Garrett Schmidt (Alynne, children Brynley, Maebry, Esme and Isla) of Saskatoon; as well as many friends, relatives and neighbours.
John attended Broadview School before completing an agriculture program at the University of Saskatoon. He took over the family farm in 1973 when his father passed away. John devoted his life to the farm and was a true steward of the land. His work ethic was unmatched and he took exceptional care of his livestock – the vet knew that a call to the Donaldson farm meant the situation was dire as John could handle most situations on his own. His kindness and generosity were boundless and he truly valued his neighbours in the Spring Lake district and the local community.
John was a great sportsman, an avid hunter and he loved living near the Pipestone Valley with its abundant wildlife. He always welcomed hunters on his land, offering to use his tractor or to help with dressing the animal. He also loved to hunt with Garrett and great-niece Brynley and enjoyed family gatherings on the farm which included roasting hotdogs, fort building, bale jumping, nursing the calves, climbing the sandhills, riding the quad and camping. He was a truly honourable man of honesty, integrity and strong morals. He was a historian with extensive knowledge of military history and immense respect for those who served their country.
John’s funeral was held in the Broadview Community Hall, Broadview, Sask. on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Cecily McDougall officiating. Interment followed in the Broadview Cemetery. A copy of the service that was livestreamed is available to view with the link that is posted on www.tubmanfh.com
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to STARS, 2640 Airport Road, Regina, SK, S4W 1A6 (www.stars.ca) or to Kipling Food Bank, Box 944, Kipling, SK, SOG 2S0. We are so thankful for friends and neighbours helping to care for his farm and cattle and for offering so many kind condolences. Online condolences may be made at www.tubmanfh.com
