It is with great sadness that we share the news of Ian’s unexpected passing on February 29th, 2020. He leaves his loving family: wife, Lise; sons, Adam and Isaac; father, Russell; sister, Stephanie; and brother, Graham. He was predeceased by his mother, Ruth.
Ian was born and raised in Cordova Bay. Growing up he enjoyed exploring the shores of Cordova Bay, fishing in Bamfield and boating around the Gulf Islands.
Ian completed his Computer Science degree at the University of Victoria, and after graduation, worked for Woods Gordon and then Payless Gas. In 1992, Ian began a career in government as a business analyst with the Ministry of Transportation, eventually joining the Ministry of Citizens’ Services. At the time of his death, Ian was the Assistant Deputy Minister of Enterprise Services in the OCIO (Office of the Chief Information Officer). Professionally and personally, Ian had a broad impact, both within government and across the broader public sector.
Ian had a gentle and unassuming nature. He was most comfortable at home in the house he built, surrounded by family. He experienced great satisfaction ensuring that every aspect of his home was ‘smart’ and efficient. The family was assured that there was no problem that couldn’t be solved by his tinkering and keen eye for solutions.
Ian felt at peace in nature and enjoyed many family and friend trips including canoeing the Bowron Lakes and kayaking the Broken Group. He liked his bikes – his road bike where he cycled 30km daily and his motorbike he rode to clear his mind.
One of Ian’s greatest qualities was his desire to help others and find solutions to their problems. He had the ability to listen and understand people, and after some research and thought, he always had an idea to share. He was able to be exactly what people needed when they needed it most.
The family was most important to Ian. He offered endless support to his sons and took great pride in telling others about their accomplishments. Ian loved his wife Lise, with whom he shared a loving 30-year marriage.
He was an amazing husband, father, son, brother, cousin, uncle, brother-in-law, son-in-law, colleague and friend. He was the rock for many of us and we will experience this loss acutely.
We will be forever grateful for the outpouring of love and care that has been extended to our family. A private service will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers to the family, please remember Ian in your own way. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Ian Russell Donaldson 2020..
mccall gardens funeral and cremation service
Death notice for the town of: Victoria, Province: Colombie britanique