Donald Pearson

On the morning of Friday, April 19, 2024, Donald Gust Pearson passed away peacefully into Heaven and into the loving arms of his wife, Beverly Irene Pearson (nee Glatiotis) who predeceased him in 2018. Don was also predeceased by his parents, August and Ida; brother, Bert; and sisters, Ester and Aileen. He will be lovingly remembered by his brother, John (Barb); son, Robert (Jacqueline); daughters, Pamela and Brenda (Keith); and grandson, Everett.

Don had an amazing life growing up on the family farm in Kipp, Alberta north of Lethbridge. He developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of the land, farm animals, fun with the family and hard work before much mechanization, that led to a life long strong work ethic. He rose to any challenge, solving problems and always offered a helping hand throughout his long life. His early school days were in the one-room school house at Newlands, three miles north of the farm. Transportation to and from school was by foot, horse, and Ford Model T. He later attended school in Nobleford and Coalhurst, where he commuted by the school bus that he drove. Don enjoyed and excelled in sports, especially baseball, where he played with the Shaughnessy Clippers. He was scouted by the New York Giants ball club and invited to spring training; however, he declined and chose to attend the University of Alberta (U of A) instead. But he continued to play baseball as his favourite sporting activity, even into his early 80’s in the senior leagues. He earned a degree in Chemical Engineering at the U of A in Edmonton. He then joined the Alberta Energy Conservation Board (ERCB) and completed his Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation. He ultimately had a long and successful career with ERCB where he was initially based in Camrose, then Black Diamond and finally in Calgary. While working at the ERCB, he played a big part in convincing the Canadian government to preserve the first Western Canadian Oil Well near Waterton as a Heritage site. After retiring from the ERCB, he continued working in partnership with a small oil and gas company.

It was in Camrose, Alberta where Don met the love of his of his life Beverly and together they lovingly raised three children. He was passionate about his family and supported any endeavor. Don had always been active and loved the outdoors. In addition to playing baseball and golf, he had a keen interest in other sports such as hockey. He also started running in his 50’s and had participated in many running race events where he won ribbons even into his 60’s. He continued to look after his health by running and walking at every opportunity he could get. His collection of well worn running shoes was impressive. Pushing a walker did not stop him. He liked reading, in particular the Discover Magazine, Our Canada Magazine and the Calgary Herald. He also enjoyed travelling with Beverly to many places in Canada and the US, including travelling in their motorhome. He loved drives in the country with his family; the country boy never left him. Don could definitely play a great game of crib, enjoyed Sudoku, and he had a keen sense of humour!

He has been an amazing father, teacher, and mentor. We admired and loved him dearly for his love and devotion to his family.

A special Thank You to the staff at the Wentworth for their compassionate care for Don. He will be greatly missed but our treasured memories of him will remain forever in our hearts. A celebration of Don’s life will be held privately at a later date.