December 7, 1949 – June 28, 2022

Donald (Donnie) Atherton passed away peacefully on June 28, 2022 with his wife Joyce by his side. He fought a short but valiant battle with brain cancer.

Don was born on December 7, 1949, he loved to tell everyone he was born on Pearl Harbour Day. It was on his bucket list to visit Pearl Harbour and he got to check it off in 2020. Don married Joyce, the love of his life in 1972. Their daughter Stacey was born in Surrey in 1976. The family moved to Kamloops in 1977 and in 1978 their son Scott was born. Don started Jay-Dees Plumbing in 1984 and Scott joined him in the business. He was a member of the Canadian Home Builders Association and was fortunate enough to work on a couple of the Kamloops Dream Homes and housing projects at Sun Rivers, Sienna Ridge and Orchards Walk. Don spent much of his free time with his beloved dogs and on golf outings with good friends. He would do anything for his friends and family who he loved fiercely. He made everyone who knew him laugh, cry and clap at his funny stories. He had the personality that made people gravitate to him even after meeting him only once. There are no words that can express how much he will be missed.

Don was predeceased by his sister Julie Kreklau, parents Jim and Sheila Atherton. He is survived by his wife Joyce, daughter Stacey (Ted), son Scott (Nicole), grandchildren Cally, Ben, Brinly and Tatym. He is also survived by brothers Tom, Terry, Mike (Dean), sister Karyn (Greg) numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and an abundance of friends.

We do appreciate your love and support during this difficult time. A celebration of life is being planned for some time in August. Contributions in memory of Don can be made to Marjorie Willoughby – Kamloops Hospice.

Messages of condolence may be delivered to Drake Cremation & Funeral Services.

• Date : 2022-06-28
• Location : Kamloops