It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Donald Joseph Edward Bellerose, August 28, 1931, to April 27, 2023.
Loving husband of the late Rose (1990) and Marilyn (2003). Proud father of Dawn, Mike (Terry), and Darrin. Loving stepfather of Kelly Smith (Lisa), Debbie White (Dave), and Raymond Smith (Claudine). Cherished Poppa of Jasmine Pirie, Cody Lazowik, Kasey, Tiffany, and Kristina Smith, Melissa White, and the late Bryan White; great grandchildren Jillian and Jaren Pirie. Special Uncle to Mary Kay Hutchinson (Don), Tom Mills (Celine), Tim Smith, Janice Soltys, Brent Smith, Susan Smith (Tony) and Keith Smith (Brad). Uncle to many nieces and nephews, and his great, great nieces Cora and Brynlea Soltys.
He will be reunited with his parents Herbert and Selina Bellerose, and siblings Helen Mills (Vern), David (Evelyn), Ralph (Hilda) and Rosemarie (Bert) Smith.
He retired from Algoma Steel in 1991, where he worked in the Rail Mill for over 30 years.
Dad was an avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing, canoeing, and portaging the Sand River with his brother-in-law Bert. He always looked forward to his annual fishing trips with his buddies in Dubreuilville. He enjoyed many camping adventures with his family and friends.
Dad (Don, Donny, Ducky) touched many lives. He will be fondly remembered for his infectious laugh and good nature by his family from the Manitoulin Island and the Kukogami crew, Doug, Jane & Fran.
Donald was a member of the Sault Stryders running club. During his time with them, he completed 3 marathons.
We would like to thank the Sault Ste. Marie Indigenous Friendship Centre, especially the staff and members of the Life Long Care Program. Dad always came home laughing and shared the stories and events of his day with you.
To the Maamwesying Health Centre team, nurse practitioners Shirley Morley, David O’Hara and Registered Nurse Tina for your friendship, compassion and care over the years.
To the Sault Area Hospital PSW’s, Nurses and Doctors, thank you for your excellent care, compassion, and kindness you gave our father and family during his stay. In his final days Dr. Sharp and Nurses Leana and Ray.
Cremation has taken place. Please join us for Donald’s celebration of life on Saturday May 13th at the Sault Ste. Marie Indigenous Friendship Center from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Memorial donations can be made to the Sault Ste. Marie Indigenous Friendship Center’s Lifelong Care Program or to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation (payable by cheque or online). Cremation entrusted through O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).