Donald John Forgie (1927-2021), died peacefully in Ottawa, May 21st. Predeceased by his loving wife of 56 years, Madeleine (Stephenson), his son John, and his sister June. He is survived by his children Pat McGahey (Joyce), Jane Donohue (Patrick), Heather Campbell (John), Kim Forgie (Lauren), and thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.
Don served in the Royal Canadian Navy during WW2. He studied Political Science and Economics at the University of Toronto, where he was photo editor of The Varsity. He went on to obtain his MBA, and later a Master of Library Science at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.
Director of Economics and Business Research with The Ontario Paper Company in Thorold for many years, Don was also actively involved in his community and was instrumental in the development of the St. Catherine’s Niagara District Airport. Fascinated by rapid advances in technology and the opportunities they afforded to business and education he joined the Faculty of Library and Information Science at the University of Toronto.
In addition to his work as an economist and professor, he acquired his pilot’s license, set up a pottery workshop, built a cottage on Huckleberry Island in Georgian Bay and raised livestock on a farm near Orillia. Don especially enjoyed challenging and encouraging his children and grandchildren to embrace new opportunities and experiences. Time to rest now Dad.
Our thanks to the amazing staff at the Perley Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre for their compassion, kindness, and friendship to Don. Donations in Don’s memory may be made to the Perley (613-526-7173).
A family celebration of Don’s life will take place at a future date when we can all safely gather.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Donald John Forgie Friday May 21st 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Ottawa, Province: Ontario