HUBICK, Donald Don Hubick

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald (Don) Hubick, age 71, of Goderich, Ontario. He passed away in his home, surrounded by the woods, birds and tranquility of nature he loved best. Predeceased by his mother, Margaret Johnson (Hubick nee Gulas) of St. Catharines, Ontario, stepfather Charles Johnson, also of St. Catharines, father Adam Hubick and brothers Alan and Murray Hubick, as well as many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins and most recently, dear friends Erin Johnston, Gary Haist, and one-of-a-kind cat Peanut. Already dearly missed by his children, Gillian Hubick, Alexander Hubick and Carly Geertsema (Hubick), sons-in-law Kyle Rea and Mike Geertsema, and daughter-in-law Jenny Hubick (Guest). Beloved Papa (or Papa Mustache) to grandchildren Owen Rea-Hubick, Nolan Hubick, Breanna Geertsema, Ethan Hubick and Myles Geertsema.   Don will also be missed by an amazing extended family, including much-loved nieces Emma Bradley and Maggie Hook, family from “across the pond”, cousins and friends who were family at heart, including his life-long friends and chosen family, the Kellestines. Born in Windsor, Ontario, on August 11, 1954, Don grew up in Hamilton and later moved to Dundas, Ontario, where he attended Parkside Highschool and later Mohawk College in Hamilton. He came to Goderich in the mid 1970s and fell in love with the area and the deep connection he felt here. He worked for Signal Star Publishing for two decades, lending his talents to the advertising department, eventually becoming ad manager. Always a graphic artist at heart, Don spent hours perfecting promotional materials for local bands, Bluesfest and Memorial Trout Derbies, as well as making homemade cards, fun photoshopped pictures of his grandkids and the new sign for his daughter’s business. Don served his community in many roles over the years before settling into bar-keeping at Joe Friday’s in Goderich. This role was a great fit for him as an avid night owl and let his friendly nature shine through. He worked at Joe Fridays until he retired but continued to be an integral face around Paddy O’Neils by overseeing their live entertainment and popping in to enjoy the show. Never one to shy away from a “short story, long”, Don loved to connect through stories, sharing in other’s greatest joys and deepest sorrows. A student of the universe, he was an avid music-lover, who cherished nature, the many birds around his home, long talks on his back porch, hikes and campfires on the beach. Don was in his element around his grandchildren, as an active and enthusiastic playmate who read the best stories. He cultivated deep friendships and took great pride and joy in his children, grandchildren and dearly loved friends and family. The Captain of his own ship, he lived passionately with purpose and a deep desire to make the world around him a better place. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Legion in Goderich on Saturday, September 20, from 1-4, with programming starting at 2:30. Don’s ashes will be interned in Welland later this Fall.     In remembrance of Don, and his desire to help those in need, donations can be made to the Goderich Food Bank, care of St. Vincent De Paul.