HARRISON, Donald John - (March 2, 1932 – August 29, 2021) - Passed away suddenly at his cottage on Balsam Lake, the lake where he spent his summers with family for over 50 years.
Beloved son of the late William and Charlotte Harrison.
Elementary school sweetheart and devoted husband of the late Dollina Harrison for 59 years. Cherished father of Margaret, Craig, Leslie Amborski (David), Sylvia (late Doug), Donald Jr., and David.
Proud and adored Poppa of Carrie (Mike), Aaron (Nicole), Tessa, Jim (Jessica), Evelyn, Ali, Lindsay, Donald (D3) and Kenny. Much loved great-Poppa of Abigail, William, Rowan and Johnathan. Brother of the late Kenneth Harrison and brother-in-law of Jean Banks and the late Donald Banks. Dear companion of Dorothy Ottaway.
He will also be fondly remembered by all of his wonderful friends from East York Collegiate, Timberlane, Indian Point on Balsam Lake, and all of his stops in between.
Don’s work ethic, and athleticism were developed at a young age, working in tobacco fields, the Harrison Family farm in Leaskdale, and in Algonquin Park in the summer, and playing football and basketball at East York Collegiate and later the University of Toronto in the fall.
A once modest and shy young man, he developed an uncanny knack for sales working with his longtime partner and friend Bill Dunne to build William M. Dunne and Associates into Canada’s largest food brokerage.
The business spurred the necessity of entertaining, which his wife Dollina did effortlessly. These dinners and parties turned into traditions, including an annual Canada Day party they threw at their cottage on Balsam Lake.
Don had a great love of nature, which he shared with his children and grandchildren. There were many canoe trips and innumerable nature walks. In 1993, he hiked the challenging Chilkoot Trail in the Yukon with a group of friends – a true “bucket list” item. Dollina shared this sense of adventure and the pair travelled around the world together.
Following an entirely too quiet first week of retirement in his early 60s, Don threw himself into volunteering. CHATS, Springboard, Youth Justice Committee were just a few of the organizations that benefited from his passion, energy and dedication to the community. His volunteerism culminated with Don being awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, an award given to individuals who have made significant contributions to a community in Canada. He and his family were so proud.
Between the hard work, travel, entertaining, and volunteering, Don and Dollina raised a family of six children. Later, they spent every hour they could with their nine grandchildren, never missing a birthday, graduation, or special event. More recently, Don lived for visits with his four great-grandchildren, who were so fond of him.
Don Harrison was a man who would do anything for those who he loved, and he loved so many. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Visitation arrangements are entrusted with Thompson Funeral Home, Aurora. A private service and interment will follow.
In lieu of flowers or memorial trees, donations can be made to The Toronto Star Fresh Air Fund, CHATS or The Salvation Army, these causes were near and dear to Don’s heart.
Don’s family would like to thank Darlene for her loving and compassionate daily care of our father and grandfather towards the end of his life.
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