September 13, 2024

In loving memory ~

We said farewell to Don Walling on September 13, 2024 at 5:45 am. He always was a morning guy.

Don was born in Claresholm, Alberta in March 1955, but his family roots were in Muskoka, Ontario where his Mom's family, the Hillmans, were early pioneers.

Don and his wife of 49 years, Mary Ellen, met in high school and had an instant connection. They shared books and records, and long talks about life. They started a family, and their life adventure began in earnest.

Don was in charge of fun at the Wallings. Beach fires, evening swims, night check at the barn, tasting sea cucumbers and frog legs, butchering venison, camping, games in the big yard; the list of sweet memories goes on and on. Nieces and nephews were always included as they shared in the fun at the little house in Black Creek.

Don had many jobs in his life, some of which he enjoyed more than others! He was a railroad carman for CN, a dairy herdsman in Ontario and BC and a practical nurse working with the old folks he enjoyed so much. He ended his work life with a stint as the "Deli Guy" at Quality Foods in Campbell River.

Don was an avid naturalist and photographer and taught us all lessons about slowing down to look at the beauty of nature around us. He enjoyed his 7 years in Panama, making beautiful memories and taking wonderful photographs, particularly of crocodiles which earned him the nickname "Cocodrilo Don" from Mary Ellen's work colleagues as he got very close to these fascinating creatures of the swamp.

His family: son Chris (Leah) Walling and grandkids, Mary-Anne Walling (Tyler Caia), Iris (Cole) Brooks and great-granddaughter Ellie Brooks, Ivy-Lynne Walling, Eric Walling; son Neale Walling; daughter Libby (Jonee) Janolino and grandson Joselito Janolino will miss him beyond words. His friends and comrades will remember the many good times and shared adventures and cheer on the Canucks for next year for sure. Don held kindness, humour and his adventurous spirit to the end.

Memories will be shared at a gathering on October 17 from 2 to 4 pm at the Rotary Fieldhouse, parking off S. Birch Street. We are most grateful to the VIHA team of doctors, nurses and care aids, and the Evergreen hospice team who exhibited such compassion through his final days and months.

Special thanks to the team of friends who supported us through the final months, your kindness and compassion, described by one friend as empathy in action will be forever treasured. Don will take a final swim in Hillman Lake, his family lake in Muskoka where he enjoyed so many wonderful times.

Rest easy, Don.

Your spirit will forever live on in our hearts.