Donald John Morse

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Don Morse. He passed away early in the morning on October 14, 2021, following complications during open heart surgery on October 13, 2021. He was 78 years old.

He is survived by his wife, Dee (Dianna Brett), daughter Karen (Greg Lacroix), brothers Elbert (Cheryl), Phil, and Lorry (Laurie) as well as many nieces and nephews. He was known lovingly as Papa to his grandchildren, Nicholas and Allison. 

Don was predeceased by his son Raymond, parents Anna and Leonard, sister Joyce (Kiselbach), sisters-in-law Anna and Felecia, his dog Keanu and that crazy cat, Katmandhu. 

Don was born in New Westminster BC and raised in Coquitam BC. He left school early and worked mostly in construction in the Lower Mainland of Vancouver and other parts of BC and worked a short time in Dubai. 

In the late 1970’s, Don became a businessman when he joined brothers Phil and Lorry in establishing Morse Construction Ltd. in Port Moody BC. They successfully ran this company together until retirement in 2015. Some of the employees, including Colin and Richard, were like family to Don. 

He met Dee in 1976 and they lived happily together in their home in Anmore for more than 40 years. 

“The Don” led a very active life. He was always an early riser and for many years went to the gym before being the first man at the office. He was fastidiously punctual and hated to be kept waiting. He was a car enthusiast and owned and showed his classic cars at many of the local car shows, actually winning a trophy at the New Westminster show for best in class with “the 66”. He loved to drive, usually fast, and was seldom in the passenger seat. He was often pulled over on the side of the road, trying to talk his way out of a ticket. He rode dirt bikes, toured with Dee on his Goldwing motorcycle in the ’80’s and in 1994 bought their first motorhome. Don and Dee spent their winters  driving to Mazatlan, Mexico in their motorhome where they made many lasting friendships. Don loved the Mexican people and they loved him. While there, Don pursued his other passion, golf. His game was always a work in progress, but he did enjoy his time on the golf courses here at home and in his travels. He met some of his best friends through golf. Karen and her family often flew down during holidays and joined the fun in Mazatlan. Don enjoyed spending this quality time with his two grandchildren. These family memories will be forever treasured. 

Don’s health started to fail in 2008, but thanks to a wonderful group of doctors, (Dr. DaRoza, Dr. Aminbakhsh, Dr. Kazemi and Dr. Kyskan) his issues were controlled, and he continued to live life to the fullest. 

Unfortunately, in 2017 Don’s health began to deteriorate more quickly and he was unable to continue to travel. He golfed sporadically and continued to enjoy his home in Anmore. In the past two years, his heart condition made life more difficult and open heart surgery was proposed. Don looked forward to the possibility of better health and, knowing the risk, agreed to the recent surgery. 

We will miss the twinkle in his eyes, his quirky wit, and of course that whistle. He was loved, he is missed, and he will never be forgotten. 

Dee and Karen would like to acknowledge and commend the team involved in his surgery and subsequent care in the Cardiac ICU at Royal Columbian Hospital. Dr. Gunning and the staff there worked tirelessly and non-stop for Don for 20 hours. They are amazing professionals. 

There will be no service, by request. Because Don received so many blood transfusions during and after surgery, the family is asking for blood donations in his honor. If you are unable to donate blood, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice, in memory of Don.