Donald Raymond McCleary passed away suddenly at home in Calgary on Thursday May 14, 2020, at the age of 84.
Don was born July 2, 1935, in Calgary, Alberta, and was a lifelong area resident. He moved in with his aunt and uncle, Nora and Ernie Asbury of Calgary in his early teenage years. Don got his first and only job in the work force at Calgary Drafting and Blueprint Co. starting in 1950 at the age of 15 as a delivery driver. He worked in many positions throughout the company and retired from Caldraft 1977 Inc. in 2000 at the age of 65. In Don’s early adulthood he took an interest in collecting stamps and soon after added coins to this interest which he continued through the rest of his life. He did some hunting and fishing but loved to go camping. He was part Kiwanis Calgary and was an active member until 1977 when he moved to the Calgary East Rotary Club. There he was an active member until his passing. During his time in Rotary he held the President, Treasurer, Casino Director along with many others positions. He volunteered and/or help organized many events held by the club including Pancake Breakfasts, Casinos, Rotary Youth Exchange Program, Student Scholarship Program and Global Fest to mention a few. He also took part in a few International Events around the world.
Don is survived by his first wife Lenore McCleary of Calgary AB; son Scott (Chantale) McCleary of Rimbey AB.; daughter Teresa McCleary of Calgary AB.; two grandchildren Darcy (Rachel) McCleary of Langdon AB, Marla (Jonathan) Cote of Picture Butte AB.; three step-grandchildren Madison, Ashlea and Delaney Schaeffer; six great grandchildren Sydnie, Levi & Bentley McCleary of Langdon AB, Paisley, Keira & Hayden Cote of Picture Butte AB.; and brother Cecil (Margaret) McCleary of Edson AB. Don is preceded in death by parents, Beatrice ‘Bee’ and Loren ‘Happy’ McCleary; brothers, George, Harry, Brian, Cliff, Gerry and sister Florence ‘Tiny’ Holmberg.
Memorial donations can be sent to the Rotary Club of Calgary East (P.O. Box 57091 Sunridge RPO, Calgary, AB T1Y 6R4) in memory of Donald McCleary.
A Visitation for Don will take place at Pierson’s Forest Lawn Chapel (4121 17th Avenue SE, Calgary) on Friday May 22nd from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm & Saturday May 23rd from 2:00pm – 3:00 pm. Due to current social distancing restrictions, the attendance will have to be in a rotational fashion to abide by government regulation.
Jane Audet says
Just wanted to say how much Don meant to me he was such a good man I will miss him immensely love him to bits he always had a good word and a hug for everybody he will be missed by many many people here’s to you Don Jane Audet Rotary club of Calgary East
Emil Paries says
I met Don back in the 50,s when I started my very first job at Calgary drafting,He was only 3 years older then me but he showed so much maturity and friendship that made my first job enjoyable.I worked with Don for three years before joining the navy.Cant beleive he worked for Calgary drafting for 50 years.But then that was Don.loyal,dependable. RIP Don.My regrets to family..Emil Paries
David Milne says
I worked with Don for 25 years at Caldraft. In fact I first met him in the early sixties when, as a kid, I worked at Caldraft doing odd jobs. Don did many different jobs at Caldraft including deliveries, sales, survey equipment specialist and Apple technician. He was a good person to work with. Very reliable, thoughtful and kind. It was so nice that Don found a second home with the Rotary Club where these traits would be most welcome. I spoke with Don two weeks ago and we had a great chat catching up. He was a big part of my life and I have many memories. I?m sure he touched the lives of many. My condolences to his family and friends. David Milne
Joan Clark says
Sorry to hear about Don?s passing. I had the pleasure of working with Don at Caldraft for close to 18 years. For someone new to the drafting business, he was very helpful and supportive while I was learning the ropes. Caldraft was like family, and we had lots of laughs and good times. We went through many changes together, from moves to new locations, to switching from traditional drafting to CAD and being an Apple dealer. Don was a great colleague, and sometimes a bit of a tease, just like a big brother.. Hugs to all the family, and keep your memories close and he?ll always be there. Joan/Joni Clark and family!
Leigh Robson Hobbs says
I worked with Don at Caldraft for many years before transplanting to Prince George. I always remember him to be openly helpful, kind and willing to go beyond what was ever asked of him. I have fond memories of his pleasant personality and good humor. My condolences to his family and friends, I will always have fond memories of him Leigh (Robson) Hobbs