Don O’Kurley
With broken hearts, we announce that our beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away on December 2, 2022 with his wife Laurette Strong and children by his side.
Don was born in 1951 and was pre-deceased by his parents Nick and Mary O’Kurley who raised Don and his brother Brian in Lamont, Alberta where Donny met Laurette while they were in high school. They were companions through a very full and joyous life of adventure for more than half a century, marking their 52nd wedding anniversary just four days before Don’s passing. They raised three children together Ashley (Sandra Beggs), Austen, and Avarey (Jeremy Amyotte) and delighted in every moment spent with their four grandchildren – Rainen, Amaia, Owen and Jaxson.
Don O'Kurley touched countless lives during his 71 years, embracing them with a warmth and gregariousness that was an undeniable force of nature. He softened hearts. He brightened spirits. He evoked the laughter inside of people, always seeking to bring out some humour wherever he went. He was adamant about treating people with kindness and respect, always looking for the little ways to connect where he could bring some light in to make people’s lives better and their difficulties a little easier to bear.
Don’s wishes were to be cremated and his ashes interred at the Fort Saskatchewan Cemetery in a private ceremony with his immediate family. All extended family and friends are welcome to be part of the community that will be gathering during May long weekend in 2023 to celebrate the impact that this marvelous man had on so many lives.
Please visit www.DonOKurley.com where you can view photos, include yourself in our mailing list to stay updated on plans for May long, share your thoughts and memories of this remarkable life and even upload your own photos for inclusion in the Photo Gallery of Don’s life.
Don believed strongly in supporting your local community. Donations to your favorite local charity are encouraged along with your support for the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Laurette and family:
Very sad to hear of Don’s passing. His trademark voice, smile, laugh and positive outlook on anything will always be with us. Many fond memories of that voice when he was the lead singer for “Blue Society”. I was proud to be part of his team the day he took a run at becoming the MLA for our area. After that, I always called him “Senator”. Another moment that will be with me was the burnout he did with his Chevy II in front of the Parkview in Lamont. Needed a bit of motor oil on the tires to get things spinning as that 283 didn’t quite have enough “oomph” for those big back tires.
Rest In Peace our friend;
Ken and Betty Sheptycki
Dear Laurette, Ashley, Avarey, Austen and families:
I am so very sorry that Donny has passed away. It is impossible to find the right words to express my feelings at this time. He truly was one of the nicest people I have ever met. His smile made everyone around him smile back. We enjoyed so many happy times together over the years, and whenever I want to remember Don, all I have to do is dream.🎶🎶
Please accept my deepest condolences at this very sad time. May he rest in eternal peace and may his memory be a blessing always.
Love from Auntie Carrie, MaryAnn and Tina
Dear Laurette and family,
We are very sorry to hear of Don’s passing. But a smile comes to the face as we remember all the old good times in Bruderheim:Christmas’s, birthdays, July 1st celebrations and so many others. We are also thankful were able to bring dad for a visit during your time down south, we all enjoyed it so very much. Our prayers go out to you all, peace be with you.
Donna and Grant Cole
Laurette
I am so sad you have lost your beloved Donny
I know how daunting life will be. God bless you and your family.
Dear Laurette and family,
We were surprised and so sorry to hear that Don has recently passed away. He was such a wonderful man. He always had a few minutes to chat and his smile and hearty laugh was contagious. I guess God chose him to keep Nean company for awhile. May the love you share as a family help you through this difficult time.
Laurette and family, so very sorry to here, we were friends in earlier days, never forgot you all. You were special friends
Dear Laurette and Family, Don was one of a kind ,he was one of the best
men I could of ever met ,I worked with Don for many years I loved his laugh and his big smile , a true Gentleman ,and a great man I will miss him .
On behalf of Michelle and myself we are very saddened for your Families loss,
I will never forget him .
Amen
So very sorry to read about Don. Laurette, it’s been a very long time, thought about you both over these many years. You may remember me as Fran Murphy,
(not anymore) and my son Darren. My condolences to you and your family, you were both very good friends.