Donnie has often been described as a Legend, Bon Vivant, honest, and—as his surgeon recently stated—a hero. It’s impossible to summarize a life as big as his. Certainly, he didn’t have an easy one, but he did know how to have fun. Inconveniences like a body cast or a broken arm never got in the way of finding an adventure.
His kindness, tenderness, and acceptance of others resulted in friends everywhere he went. Never did he hesitate to extend his hand and ear to those around him. He loved the light-hearted spirit of animal and children, and easily connected to both through laughter and jokes.
As a former journalist, he stressed the importance of language, style, and presentation when teaching others. He was eager to share his love of books and knowledge with any young person who crossed his path, especially his daughter. Music and the land and water of Biscotasing were his lifelong companions. Whether alone or in the company of loved ones, he spent much of his life fishing and in his boat.
He died how he lived: singing, reassuring others, telling jokes, and breaking the rules. His final moments were peaceful, surrounded by family and music. True to who he was, his final words were used to make a joke.
We are grateful for what he brings to our lives.
Donnie is predeceased by his mother and father, Anita & Richard McLeod. He is survived by his ex-wife, Cynthia Phillips; daughter, Alana McLeod (Ezra); sister Anita McLeod (Rick); niece Lindsey; nephew Brian (Natalie); niece Jennifer (Brett), and great-niece, Raven; nephew, Alexander; nephew Nicholas (Vivian), great-nephew William, and a not-yet-known great nephling coming in March; his beloved cats, Peanut & Cashew; his friend and caregiver of many years, Caroline Fay; and many other lifelong and newfound friends.
A donation can be made in his honour to either
Indspire indspire.ca/ways-to-give/donate/
or your local food bank.
A celebration of his life will be held in February 2023. Please contact Donnie’s family to be updated on the details.
Read Less
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donnie McLeod, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Donnie McLeod Wednesday December 14th 2022 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
Death notice for the town of: Parry Sound, Province: Ontario