1954 – 2016
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Philip Randolph James Donaldson of Nelson, BC. Phil passed away at home on April 12, 2016 of a heart attack at the age of 61.
Phil was born in Nelson on December 8, 1954 – the only child of Rose and Jim Donaldson. He married his high school sweetheart Lana Petersen in 1976. In 1987 they celebrated the birth of their only child, daughter Andrea. Phil’s proudest moment was seeing Andrea called to the Bar as a lawyer at the Vancouver Law Courts call ceremony just weeks before his passing.
Phil completed his schooling in Nelson at Notre Dame University and Eastern Washington University to obtain his teaching degree. He spent his entire career as an elementary school teacher, first at Woodland Park Elementary and then Kinnaird Elementary, both in Castlegar. Teaching was his passion and he was a gifted educator beloved by his students. He was “Mr. D”. He retired in 2011 after 33 years of teaching, with wonderful memories and friendships.
Phil was an avid golfer and life-time member of the Granite Pointe Golf Club, as well as a talented musician, playing both piano and guitar. In retirement, he just wanted to relax, enjoying golf, cooking, reading, and his peppermint tea while bs-ing with the boys down at Oso Negro.
He was predeceased by his grandparents, Alice and John Renzie of Procter and In-Laws, Leopold and Tamara Petersen of Nelson. Phil is survived by his wife Lana, daughter Andrea of Vancouver, and parents Rose and Jim Donaldson of Nelson, as well as several uncles, aunts, cousins, and Lana’s sisters and their families.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 22, 2016 at 11:00 am at Thompson Funeral Home, 613 Ward Street in Nelson. Reception to follow.
Heartfelt appreciation is extended to Dr. Sparrow and First Responders, Paramedics and Nelson City Police for their efforts and kindness.
As an expression of sympathy, a donation may be made in Phil’s name to the Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca