Donald C. Gabitous
February 27, 1941 - October 21, 2022
Funeral Details: Private family arrangements at a later date
Donald Charles Gabitous (81), passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 21, 2022, at Leacock Family Care Centre in Orillia.
Don was a kind man who enjoyed a quiet, small-town life. The majority of his 81 years being spent in Muskoka; enjoying trips to the hunt camp in Lewisham to enjoy nature and many laughs with old friends, and activities in and around both Muskoka Lake and Turtle Lake. It was here that he experienced his fondest shared memories through boating, watersports, scuba diving and comradery with his extended family and friends. If asked his greatest accomplishment and joy however, Don’s answer would most certainly be the life and legacy he built with his wife of 54 years, Brenda. His unwavering love and pride for his family was present until his final breathe.
Don will be missed by his wife Brenda Gabitous (nee Nawrocki), daughter Tanya Southwick (Brook), son Jeff Gabitous and his four beautiful grandchildren Ben, Emma, Drew and Mia. Survived by his brothers Gord Gabitous and Les Gabitous (Susan), and sister Carol Johnson. Brother-in-law to Lori, Susan, Alex and Norman. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Leslie and Nuala Gabitous (nee Brennen), sister-in-law Gladys and brothers-in-law Brian, Gordan and Keith.
"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day" - author unknown
Per Don’s wishes, no funeral will be planned at this time, however a celebration of his life will be held next summer to allow family and friends to travel home.
Tim & Elizabeth West
Posted on: Sunday, October 23, 2022Tanya and family, we are so very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing.
He sounds like he was a very nice man and you will hold dearly many fond family memories.
Our condolences, Tim & Liz West
George and Lynne Briden
Posted on: Sunday, October 23, 2022Our deepest sympathy goes out to His loving and caring wife Brenda and to Tanya and Family and Jeff and Family .it’s been a tough road but he is in Gods hands and God will take good care of him . Thinking of you all Brenda . REST IN PEACE DON .YOU WILL BE MISSED . George &Lynne Briden .
Irene Meek
Posted on: Sunday, October 23, 2022My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Take strength from knowing he is now at peace.
Julie and Gord
Posted on: Sunday, October 23, 2022Dear Brenda and family
So so sorry to hear of your deep loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Don will be dearly missed
Russ and Wanda Tickner
Posted on: Sunday, October 23, 2022Brenda, our most sincere condolences on the loss of the love of your life, Don. May your fond memories carry you through this sad time. We’re just around the corner if ever you need help or are just looking for some company. Take care.
Stacey Gabitous
Posted on: Tuesday, October 25, 2022Dear Aunt Brenda, Tanya & Jeff,
As kid, coming to Gravenhurst was the highlight of the summer. Visiting your house and having everyone out to the cottage was a big part of that.
I remember Uncle Don as always smiling and laughing. He was the one who took us out on the big lake, let us drive snowmobiles and was often behind the wheel of the boat as tubbed and skied up and down Turtle Lake a zillion times.
He had the biggest set of barbells I had ever seen and we all wanted to be his partner in the Gabitous Regatta canoe races. He did not excel in the egg race.
When I think of Uncle Don I picture him sitting on the dock at Turtle Lake, shirt off, red trucker hat, a big smile, laughing, and kindly teasing.
My condolences your loss.
Stacey