MALES, Donald
DONALD RITCHIE MALES Don left to meet his Maker on Sun. Jan. 31 - 2021 at the age of 90. He leaves behind his wife, Ellen Fry of sixty-seven years. He was a loving Father to eight children, Daryl (Holly), Jodee (Wayne), Donita, Brant, Gwenna (Tim), Ryan (Laura), Glen, and then Lorna who predeceased him in 2009. Don had 12 precious grandchildren, Kyle, Dalton, Trista, Tanya, Taffia, Brydon, Brooke, Jeremy, Tasha, Joshua, Janika and Nolan, and eight beautiful great-grandchildren Hudson, Decklan, Oakley, Rowan, Emersyn,Daxon, David and Troy. Don's parents Gordon Males & Gladys (Ludlow) Males were married in 1922 and made their home and raised their eight children in New Liskeard. Predeceasing Don were his sisters Audrey, Betty and Dorothy also his brothers Robert and Gordon. He is survived by his sister Bertha and brother Lloyd. Don attended New Liskeard Public School and spoke fondly of his favourite teacher Miss Jean McClaren. He left school after grade nine to work at Armstrong Motors repairing bikes, then on to Hill-Clark Frances where he worked first in purchasing and then accounting and IBM departments. He spoke in appreciation for his mentor Jack Clark. He then moved to Northern Telephone as a computer operator. Don founded the Clean Scene Laundromat with Clair Shepherdson for a short time. He then continued his entrepreneurial journey alone and expanded to include Dry Cleaning, Industrial Laundry, Uniform and mat rental services. His daughter Jodee and son-in-law Wayne Swanson took over the business when Don retired. It was later sold to the present owner. Don was an avid hunter and with his brother Gordon and their hunting buddies enjoyed a yearly hunting experience sometimes bringing home a trophy or two. He also tried his hand at wood working and was delighted to gift his daughters and granddaughters with cedar boxes, bedside tables etc. He also crafted a beautiful large oak fireplace which sits in the family home. Don also took up the art of painting with oil and acrylics under the guidance of Helen Hall. He enjoyed painting sessions with his brother Lloyd and grandson Dalton. Many of his works of art hang on the walls of his home and the homes of his ever-growing family. Don was heavily involved in his community and served on council for Dymond Township and was a member of the Little Claybelt Homesteaders Museum. There he received an award for his work in conserving the area’s heritage. Don worked on the Temiskaming District Scouting Board and was a hands-on Scout Leader and worked with Camp Quality, a camp for children affected by cancer. Don was a devoted member of the Community of Christ Church where he served as an elder and for seven years as pastor in the New Liskeard Congregation. He also supported many church sponsored outreach programs. Don is remembered by his children as a steady, supportive, kind-hearted father who was incredibly spiritual, calm, selfless and accepting of everyone. He had a loving generous and caring personality which made him a good listener. His passion for woodworking and painting graced his family with many treasures. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to World Accord, his favourite charity, which supports needs in third world countries. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
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