Donald Edward Perry

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Edward “Don” Perry. At the age of 88, Don passed away peacefully at the Huntsville Hospital on June 18, 2024. Predeceased by his sister Lillian Hazard he leaves behind his beloved wife of 39 years Kathleen “Kay” Perry. Loving, supportive father of Ted Perry, Don Perry (Bonnie), Kathy Connelly (Clayton) Brad Perry (David). Step father to Craig Moore (Irene) and Heather Leclerc. Grandfather to Jim, Vicki, Chad, Kailee, Amy, Brennan, Jessica, Cody, Trevor, Tyler and Travis. Don was very proud of his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also fondly remembered by his nieces, their families and his many friends. 

A remarkable man whose upbringing began in the mountains of Sutton Quebec in the Eastern Townships. He would tell fond stories of his early education in a one room school house, clearing fields on the farm with his father and hockey games with friends he held dear his entire life. At age 13 he tragically lost both his parents only months apart and was brought to Toronto by his great aunt Kate to ensure he received a good education.

In Toronto, he quickly adapted to his new life, forging new friendships, completing his education and beginning an exceptional career at Canada Post that would last 37 years. 

Don was a loving and devoted parent and remarkable for the times, raised his four children as a single father. For many years it was Don and his children who navigated the world living in the north end of the Greater Toronto Area but he eventually found the home that would last his life time. His Rose Lake home in the Huntsville area. At the lake Don found a passion for building and people he called family to enjoy his life with. 

It was in Huntsville while out with the boys that he met Kay, they danced that first night and so began a partnership that would last the rest of his life. Don took the Post Master role in Huntsville as his last post and he and Kay settled on Ravenscliffe Rd enjoying a great life with their legion and Rose Lake friends.

Even while working full time dad toiled at the lake always a project on the go. He built two beautiful cottages that every family member, friend or just passers-by participated in. You couldn’t stop and say hello without Don asking for help holding one last board to end his day.

Don discovered in his early years at Rose Lake that the properties around the cottages were going to be lost to back taxes. Don spent many hours driving up and down the highway from Aurora to Muskoka working with lawyers, the township and coordinating with all the owners to save the properties that we still have today. A legacy left to his and all the Rose Lake kids to enjoy.

Although he endured many challenges and sad events in his life Don always maintained a positive happy attitude. You could never leave a discussion with Don without a smile on your face. He brought joy to so many and will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate man.

The Perry family would like to sincerely thank the medical team and entire staff at the Huntsville Hospital. Further, we extend enormous gratitude to Home & Community Care Muskoka and in particular, Judith, Ruth, Juanita and Laurie for their exceptional, compassionate care over the last few years.

A celebration of Don will be held at the Huntsville Royal Canadian Legion from 2-4pm on Saturday June 29th. To honour Don’s passing or as expression of sympathy, donations in his memory to the Alzheimer Society of Muskoka (Donate) would be greatly appreciated.