June 24, 1943 - Nov 13, 2021
It is with great sadness that the family of Donald Culbertson announces his passing at the U of A hospital on November 13, 2021 at the age of 78 years.
Don will be loved and missed forever by his wife Shari of 50 years, his son Kayne, daughter Elaine, and his six grandchildren, Finley, Colin, Casey, Ella, Morgan, and Jessica. Don is also survived by brother Kenn (Phyllis), sisters-in-law Lorene, Sue (Jim), and Debbie. Additional mourners include nieces, nephews, other extended family members, and friends. Predeceased by parents Daisy and Vernon, brother Vern, and brother-in-law Don.
Donald was born in Edmonton, and attended Queen Elizabeth High School and NAIT. He graduated Social Services class of 1970. He worked for Community Services as a probation officer for 30 years, first in Vegreville, Edmonton, and then St. Albert. In 2000 he was awarded the Governor Generals Medal for Exemplary Service. After retirement he went on to work at Oakhill Boys Ranch.
He enjoyed weekends and holidays at Skeleton Lake, with friends and family. A welcoming larger than life character "Big Don" will leave a void in the Skeleton Lake community. Don’s favourite trips include Ireland, Maui, Kimberley, and the Field of Dreams in Iowa.
Growing up in Calder, Don played baseball, football, and rugby. A devoted member of the Leprechauns Rugby Club, playing alongside his two brothers. He later took up the relaxing game of golf, where he was a member at the Skeleton Lake Golf Club, and the Glendale. Big Don took up the game of hockey at the age of 40, playing Wednesday nights for Johnny C's Shaky Shooters, and the Bruin Inn Boomers. Retirement led him to meet many great friends at Fountain Park Pool. As a member of the Black Line club, his morning regimen included aquasize at the pool whenever he was able.
Don spent many hours volunteering his time to the Leprechaun Rugby Club, St. Albert Minor Hockey, the St. Albert Saints, Skeleton Lake Golf Club, and the Legal Aid Society. He was a proud founding member of the St. Albert Rugby Club.
As a husband, father, and grandfather Don always celebrated our milestones with us. If he could not be there in person, he was always the first phone call. It is with great comfort that he is looking over us, and will always be in our hearts.
A heartfelt thank you, to all the Doctors and Nurses that have cared for Don over the past two decades. A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2022 in St. Albert. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Alberta Diabetes Foundation.
