Donald "Don" Abraham Sawatzky

Dear Lois and family, Our sincere sympathy to you and yours at this very difficult time. We hold great memories of many F.D. Christmas celebrations featuring--Don, our favorite Santa!! When Jim had his truck accident, and for many months thereafter, Don was there for us in every way. He provided critical information relating to sickness and accident, names of officials to contact and more importantly comforting words to myself and children. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sharon and daughters Laurie and Deb

Dear Lois and family, I am very sorry to hear of Don's passing. Many years have gone by since I stood beside you both at your wedding. I remember Don being a wonderful "Santa". My deepest sympathy to you and the family.

I first worked with "Cy" at the old #4 station in Bridgland. I always enjoyed his humour while working with him. Our 2 daughters had the good fortune of knowing Santa starting at Woodwards. They were always amazed he knew so much about their dad's job, shift work , the Christmas party and the Toy Assoc party. They were convinced this was Santa. When they were adults, we met Santa at Mt Royal village and they and our 2 granddaughters had their picture taken with Santa once again. Needless to say our daughters were saddened to hear of Santa's passing. Our family sends our deepest condolences to you and your family. May you find comfort in your family and friends and knowing Don created so many happy memories for others.

Lois and family, we will always remember Don as a kind and gentle man who who accepted us into the Shriner family without hesitation. He always went out of his way to make sure that my wife Tanille was comfortable and felt welcome which meant a lot to me. I always viewed Don as truly genuine in his desire to do good things for others. I also respect him for the way he would be a voice for question when it came time to make decisions within our group. It has been through him that I have learned to have faith in those around me when dealing with things that really matter. For even if he didn't agree 100% with a direction, he did have faith in the ideals and the desire to do good in those around him to be able to give a 100% to you! Don our friend, you will be sincerely missed, Jason (Koko) and Tanille Kosolofski

I was so sorry to learn that Don has passed away. I worked with him in the Hardware Department at Woodward's for about four years. After 45 years I've forgotten the names of most of the men there, but never Don! He was a real pleasure to be around - always smiling, telling nice jokes, and treating us women as a gentleman should. He was liked and respected by everyone. I send my deepest sympathy to his whole family. Sincerely, Peggy Hogg

Dear Lois and family - we were so sorry to hear of Don's passing. He was a true gentleman and he had a great sense of humour. He will be missed greatly at McDougall and especially the Friendship club. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at the difficult time.

Our sincere condolences to you and your family Lois on Don's passing. He was a dedicated Mason, Shriner, Shrine clown and of course Santa to many children. We enjoyed our camping and Q years with you both. He will be missed. A husband and father to be proud of. Frank (Tinker) & Audrey Thistle

Dear Lois and family We were sorry to read of Don's passing last week. He was one of a kind and we know you will miss him. We have fond memories of the laughter and good times we shared with you two when we were all young and starting out. One of my favourite memories of him was when we took our kids to see "Santa". With our kids on his knees and with his eyes twinkling, he would say, "And has Mommy been a good girl this year?" Don was a good man and brought a lot of happiness to many people. We are thinking of you at this sad and difficult time. Love, Myrna and Ed

So very sorry to hear of Don's passing. Our deepest sympathies to Lois and the family.

Lois My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time. We will certainly miss "our Santa". Lee Clay

Dad,so grateful your suffering has ended,tho we will miss you terribly.. you are with the Master now and your life has just begun,where there will be no more pain..