HAGGART, Donald

Donald “Red / Donny” Haggart was a caring and loving husband, father, brother and friend. He left this world peacefully on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at the age of 75. His long battle with cancer in recent years showed his courage in facing life and challenges with strong will and a ready smile. Despite his setbacks, Don came out a hero and stayed strong until the silent end.

Born in Coniston to the late Gordon and Filva (nee Burton) Haggart. Dear brother of Shirlene and Kirk (Loretta); predeceased by Pansy, Phyllis, Pauline, Peter and Clinton.

 Loving husband of Sheila (nee Critch) for over 35 years. Don and Shiela spent many years in love and travelled many times to Mom’s hometown in Newfoundland, where Dad “kissed the cod” and was a sworn in “Newfie”. He also fell in love with her parents and family there and enjoyed the “downhome” lifestyle.

 Father to Donna (Fern) of Barrie, Tammy (Cory) of Dowling, Kevin (France) of Kirkland Lake, Filva (Chris) of Courtice, Chad (Lorraine) of Sturgeon Falls, and Shayne (Jorrey) of Sudbury. He was active and loving in all of our lives and enjoyed our many family get togethers.

Cherished grandfather of Jesse, Lindsay, Logan, Matty, Shaymis, Kendra, Nicholas and Bronwyn. He loved them all deeply. Each has had a turn on his legs doing “leg raises” (which were ‘gas powered’) and all probably witnessed the bicep dance while he mumble-hummed along.

Don poured his heart and soul into his family and friends. This devotion showed especially during his union days, where he became very respected and admired for his dedication to his fellow union “brothers and sisters” and eventually became Chief Steward and then Vice President of the union for some time. After retiring in 2001, he promptly involved himself in the Pensioners union, where he continued to be active in the cause. He also dedicated time to the Medical Awareness Program, and he remained active in the Union’s Labour Day activities and the annual Workers’ Memorial Day.

Don had a love of music, and although he couldn’t play guitar very well…he rocked it. Even though he didn’t know all the words to the songs…he rocked that too. At every get together and dance he was usually the first on the dance floor and the last on the dance floor, with his collar up, his combed-forward Elvis hair and ultra-infectious laugh. You will forever be in our hearts and deeply missed.

Celebration of Life to be held at the Dowling "Lions Den", 27 Sturgeon St., Dowling, Ontario on Saturday, March 19, 2022 from 1-4 p.m. Wearing of masks is required. www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca