Wallace Donald Nimchuk
May 8th, 2023
NIMCHUK, Wallace Donald
August 23, 1938 – May 8, 2023
Following a long courageous battle with dementia, Don passed away at the age of 84 in Delta, BC at the Delta View Care Center, with his family by his side.
Don will forever be lovingly remembered by his wife Carole, who was by his side for 59 years, and by his two sons: Warren (Jackie) and Darren (Jodie). He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Cameron, Katherine, Owen, Julia, Kayla, and Kyle. He will also be sorely missed by Jacquie and Leigh McBain. Don is survived by his sister Madeline (Joe) and predeceased by his brother Myron.
Don was born in Anola, MB on the family farm. He always wanted to be an RCMP member; and at 19 that became reality and Don was accepted into training at the Ottawa Depot. Don was not only an RCMP member, but an active community member wherever he was posted. He was transferred to Maillardville, BC in 1959 and spending the rest of his policing career in BC. Don patrolled Highway 1 and the Pattullo Bridge during the 60’s sometimes on a Harley. He was transferred between various detachments around the Lower Mainland, until he accepted a transfer in 1971, to Port Hardy, BC. From Port Hardy, Don was transferred to Colwood and then Prince George before returning to the Lower Mainland, where he was stationed in Coquitlam and then while Staff Sgt. in charge of the White Rock Detachment, he retired in 1998.
Don was a proud family man and even while Carole raised the family as a result of his shift work, he always made time for camping or trips to Palm Springs to visit his in-laws. Don was involved with many of his son’s sports, especially hockey and softball. He and Carole were avid curlers and met many lifelong friends at the rink. Don coached and volunteered often, as he loved giving back to the community. He was very involved in his church where his outreach and leadership was strong. Don also learned to play guitar at an early age; he was self-taught and learned by ear and was part of a band during his time in Depot and long after as well. He played any type of guitar he could get his hands on; up to 2020, Don could still play and thrilled his grand-kids and all others present.
All who knew Don will miss both his calming disposition and happy demeanor. He was a highly respected member of the RCMP even after his retirement and continued his involvement with other Vets. He never missed a Remembrance Day Parade opportunity either, marching with his troops in Red Serge.
The family would like to graciously thank the wonderful nurses and care aides at Delta View who were so supportive and caring, especially in his final days. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC on Don’s behalf.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 31 at 11:00am at Shepherd of The Valley Lutheran Church in Langley, BC. The Celebration will also be Livestreamed at https://tinyurl.com/donnimchuk
Messages:
I remember Don well from my ice hockey and officiating days at Juan de Fuca. When he left Colwood for another posting I really felt it; many RCMP helped to guide us kids along and he was a true leader. God speed.
So very sorry for your loss. Don was a wonderful man. I was a renter of Don and Carole’s property in Port kells for many years. It was always so nice when Don popped in for a visit. I had 3 young kids at the time that loved Don and would say Mommy Grandpa is here. ( my kids had no grandparents) and Don would talk to them and play with them like they were his grandchildren. Heaven definitely gained a real Angel ❤️
Sending our condolences Carole - Warren & Darren & families. Don was a fine gentleman - so personable & kind. He will be missed! The Trentini families.
Carole and family Our condolences to you and family
Don was my watch commander at Colwood Detachment just outside of Victoria. My deepest condolences and hope all is well with family and friends.
My heartfelt condolences go to Carole, Warren and Darren. Grief is always the price we pay for love! Take comfort in knowing Don is no longer struggling. Take Care, Love Sonia
Carole, Warren, Darren and family we share our heartfelt sorrow as you say goodbye to Don. We were truly blessed and accepted as family by you when we moved to Langley over 35 years ago. You took many opportunities to always welcome us into your home. Don quickly became an adopted grandfather to our kids. Don’s energy and enthusiasm matched that of our kids. We are so grateful for the care and love Don, and all of you, poured into our family. Praying for God’s almighty strength, peace and love to carry you through this time and as you walk this journey. Love, Steve, Laura and kids
Carole and family Saddened to learn of Don’s passing. Recalling pleasant memories of our time spent with members of Port Hardy during our posting in neighboring Port Alice. On a recent nostalgic visit with my sons to Port Alice Archives we came across a clipping from North Island Gazette of Don and Ed receiving their Corporal hooks in early 1972. Freed of the grips of dementia, they are now free to resume their comradeship. May cherished family memories bring peace and comfort to your hearts in times to come. Sincere condolences to your family.
My second Dad in my youth. I am so sad to hear this news and am going to miss you so much.p3sh75 Love to Carol, Warren, Darren and family.
Sorry to hear of Don's passing. Don and I trained together in N Division in 1958. He and I were in a small band when in training. We lost contact with each other when he went west and I stayed in Ottawa. Bob Stephens REG. 20360 Kamloops BC
I have great memories of playing hockey with Don in ANOLA .. great guy . We are sorry Carol to hear of Don's passing. Roland & Theresa Kruchak ,Surrey BC
Our deepest condolences to you Carole and your family. Don and Gord became good friends while stationed together at the RCMP Detachment on Pattullo Bridge. We were so pleased to have Don as Gord's Bestman at our wedding. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gordon and Jo-Anne
My second Dad in my youth. I am so sad to hear this news and am going to miss you so much.p3sh75 Love to Carol, Warren, Darren and family.
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to Carole, her two boys and extended family. He was a lot of fun, and devoted to his job.
Don was my 1st RCMP boss as a new recruit and was a true gentleman, setting a great example for all of us at White Rock. Sorry to hear of your loss Carole.
Thinking of and praying for all of you at this time of Don’s death. I remember his great smile, his kind demeanour and his profound love for his family. God be with you! Pastor Tim Le Drew
Carole, I just read of Don's passing in the Quarterly. My sincerest condolences to you and the family. I remember my time in Port Hardy with Don and yourself very clearly. Don was responsible for getting me started on a career I will always cherish. I met Don at Dave Cowley's retirement a number of years later. He had an infectious smile and was a true gentleman. I wish I had followed some of his investment advice. Best wishes my thoughts are with you.