Donald Kolody

In Memoriam of Donald Fredrick Kolody

Donald Frederick Kolody ascended to heaven on October 25, 2024 in Saskatoon Saskatchewan. He leaves behind his devoted wife Donna-Lee Kolody, and his three cherished daughters Amber-Dawn lynn Kolody (Lucas and Everett Gushta), Patricia-Lee Scott (Dallas Willliam Friesen) and Judith-Dawn Kolody (Jemma-Rose Sheila and Vitalia Avery Belauh Kolody). He is also survived by his beloved sister, Sheila Kolody (Dylan and Isabella Gallant). Donald was predeceased by his parents Sheila and Donald Kolody and his grandparents Eunice and Frank Belding Sr.

Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and raised in Miramichi; Don's life was a testament to his unwavering faith and boundless passions. From a young age, he was deeply religious serving as a youth pastor and part of the worship team, guiding others to embrace God. Don's musical talents were manifold; he initially picked up the guitar to impress, but soon it became a lifelong devotion, playing multiple instruments including the saxophone.

His love for Donna-Lee Kolody was unparalleled. Despite honest means, Donald found creative and heartfelt ways to express his love. Once spending an entire afternoon crafting little red hearts from his daughter's construction paper, to decorate their room on Valentine's Day. Their evenings were often filled with his recitations of Shakespeare, or serenades of songs he had penned for her. Some of his final words to Donna-Lee, encapsulate their profound bond.

"In case you should ever forget, you are smart, you are beautiful, you are loving, you are kind, and no one on God's green earth will ever love you as much as I do."

Don was an extraordinary father, instilling in his children the values of authenticity and honesty, encouraging them to define their lives by their passions. His love was boundless and unconditional, accepting them for who they were. He was the valiant conqueror of childhood monsters, a shoulder to cry on, and a steadfast protector of his family. Countless nights were spent around the fire with him playing his guitar, the family singing along. His dedication to his family was limitless; he would move mountains for them, filling our home with laughter and love. For his children, he was a beacon of light, illuminating the dark and unknown. He was the family's moral compass, a paragon of kindness.

Don's life was rich with passions, to numerous to list. One notable pursuit was his mastery of maintaining saltwater fish tanks, creating a touch of Miramichi in the prairies. He even managed the largest residential saltwater fish tank in western Canada. His curiosity was insatiable; extending to technology, where he excelled in building circuit boards, and coding. If it piqued his interest, Don would master it, turning dreams into reality.

Teaching came naturally to Don, and he took great pride in mentoring his grandchildren. They were his greatest joy and the light of his life. He celebrated their achievements, big and small, and his love of music. He learned sign language to communicate with his autistic grandchild. His dedication to their growth and happiness was unmatched; he tirelessly researched to nurture his eldest granddaughter's skills and interests. Don embraced being the male role model in the family, loving his grandchildren with unmatched fervor. They were the gleaming jewels of his crowning glory.

At his core, Don was a humble man who lived by the tenet "love thy neighbour". Regardless of who you were or your background, all welcomed and treated with equal kindness. He would readily give the shirt off his back, facing the world with unflinching authenticity.

We will gather to celebrate his remarkable life at 2 PM on November 1, 2024. It will take place at Saskatoon Funeral Home and will be presided over by Pastor Jordan of the neighbourhood Pentecostal church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made toward Pancreatic Cancer support and research. https://pancreaticcancercanada.ca/