We Remember
BRAYTON, Don Leonard
August 12, 1945 — March 23, 2026
Don Leonard Brayton, a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, and respected lifelong golf professional, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at the age of 80.
Born on August 12, 1945, in Montreal, Quebec, Don was the second child of Margaret and Len Brayton. His early years were spent moving across Canada as his father served in the army, before the family settled in Calgary, Alberta. It was there, watching his father play, that Don’s love for golf first began—a passion that would grow into a remarkable life in the sport and lead him to become a successful golfer throughout Alberta.
Don’s dedication to golf began early and evolved into an extraordinary 65-year career in the industry. As a proud CPGA professional, he contributed his talents to many of Alberta’s most respected golf courses. Known for his deep knowledge of the game, Don was equally admired for his easygoing nature, quick wit, and genuine enjoyment of connecting with others both on and off the course. In 1976, he met the love of his life, Michaela, and from that moment on, they were inseparable-working side by side in the golf industry, always as a team. Michaela was his constant support and unwavering backbone throughout their life together.
In 2002, Don and Michaela retired to Kelowna, British Columbia, where his passion for golf remained as strong as ever. He continued as a teaching professional at the Golf Centre, sharing his knowledge through lessons, mentoring junior golfers, and dedicating time to a special needs program through the City of Kelowna. His generosity and commitment to helping others experience the joy of golf left a meaningful and lasting impression.
Above all, Don took great pride in his family. He was incredibly proud of his children and the lives they built, and nothing brought him more joy than watching them grow and succeed.
Don will be deeply missed by his loving wife Michaela; his son Darren (Nicole); his daughter Kellie (Phil); his cherished granddaughter Anna; his brothers Gary (Marnie), Gord (Pat), and Glenn; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He will also be fondly remembered by the countless people who shared in his love of the game—whether through a quick tip, a lesson, or a conversation after a round.
He was predeceased by his parents, Len and Margaret Brayton, and by his siblings David Brayton and Judy Brayton.
In lieu of flowers, Don’s final wish was simple: take the time to enjoy a great round of golf, and cherish the friendship, laughter, and connection that comes with it.
Don’s legacy will live on in every swing, every shared story, and every moment spent on the course.
A service will be held on SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2026, at 3:30 PM (PT), at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.
A celebration of life will be held in Calgary, AB at a later date.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2026, at 3:30 PM (PT)
Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME
I was saddened to hear of Don’s passing. I want to extend my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Don will be remembered not only for who he was, but for how he made others feel, and that is a rare and beautiful gift.
Ed and I are so sad about Don’s passing.He was a good friend.Hugs to Michaela, Kelly and Phil
So very sorry to all the family god bless
Stay strong…its so difficult..big Hugs,Laura
We are so sorry for your loss!! Thinking of you all at this difficult time.🙏🏻💝
Sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family during this tough time.
I am so sad to hear about Don’s passing. . The Obituary was so true and so beautiful. Don was a fine gentleman who always said words to make me smile. RIP Don and condolences to Michaela and the whole family..
My sincere condolences to the Brayton family. Don was a classic with an incredible sense of humor and a deep passion the sport of golf. I am sure Don will be playing with is Dad at the Heaven Golf & CC this weekend!
Our condolences Michaela to you and your family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.
My dearest Kel,
Sending so much love to you, Phil, your Mom, and your whole family. We will all deeply miss your Dad—his presence, his warmth, and that incredible sense of humor that lit up every room. He had such a beautiful purpose in life, always centered around his family, his love of golf, and those little joys—rum, sweets, and the generosity he shared so effortlessly with everyone around him. That’s a legacy that lives on in all of you.
I love you so much, Kel. I’m holding you close in my heart and sending you strength, healing, and endless love during this time. Please know you’re never alone in this—always here, always beside you.
Heaven has gained a truly special angel watching over you.
All my love 🤍
So very sorry for your loss. Love and prayers to all the family. You are in my thoughts.
Deepest sympathy to the entire family. Don was introduced to us via our friendship with Kellie, he was not only our friend he became our surrogate dad, we will miss his insights and that sly little grin, he was one in a million and we will remember him dearly. A special and kind man who will be missed now and always.
We look forward to the round of golf in the sky when we meet again.
Fly with the angels my friend and may your soul rest in peace.
Condolences from Marten VandenBroek and Lorie Williams friends of Gord and Pat
Hi Michaela and Kelly – just heard from Tawnia about Uncle Don’s passing – my condolences. You guys were such a big presence in our lives growing up in Calgary. I remember how close and supportive your family was with my Mom, Rosita, and us kids – big hugs out your way.
I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to all the family..
I am so sad to hear about Don’s passing. To Michaela, Kelly and Phil, Darren and all the Family I extend my sincere condolences for your loss. Family meant everything to him!! Don was a mentor, a great friend and a pure gentleman. The PGA of Canada has lost a great golf instructor! “ The Best” golf instructor I’ve ever seen teaching children how to golf!! Don spent countless hours dedicating his time and passion towards the person’s with diverse abilities through the Parkinson Recreation Centre. I still remember the time myself and Don won a large 50/50 jackpot at a Kelowna Rocket Game. He was so excited! I think he told Michaela!! Gone but never forgotten, Remember all the good times. Derek Nicolson
Big hug for Michaela and family! Don was a great guy and a lot of fun to be around! Brydon and Don would keep me laughing for hours, good times!
We are truly saddened at the loss of a great friend! There are countless memories of great times with our kids and friends in Lac la biche and later in Kelowna. He was such a special man who made everyone happy being around him. Our love and prayers to Michaela, Darren, Kellie and their families.
My condolences to Michaela, Darren, and Kellie. Uncle Don always took the time to help me with my golf game and equipment, and always made me laugh with his subtle, but very witty jokes. May his drives be straight and putts be true.
Condolences to Michaela and family on Dons passing. Cherish your wonderful memories.
Michaela and Kellie, I am so deeply sorry and saddened to learn of Don’s recent passing. I can only hope the wonderful memories you have shared will bring comfort at this very difficult time. A big hug to each of you.
Michaela and family our deepest sympathy on the passing of Don. All your wonderful memories will help you in this difficult time.
All our love Juanita and Doug Dymond
We are so saddened to hear of Don’s passing. He was a cherished friend and a guiding mentor to many. His saying “beauty – take it how you wish” will always be remembered fondly by us. We are thankful for the good times and memories we made with him and Michaela. Sending out deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Love and hugs to you Leo + Chris Palamaruk
Sorry to hear that Gordon. Losing a family member is a tough road. The only advice I ever got that made sense – and was actually useful – was the fact that as time passes, tomorow is somewhat better than today. My sincere condolences, Gordon.
I am so sorry that you, Kelly and Phil have had to lose such a great guy.
Thinking about you all for tomorrow afternoon and wishing that I could be there with everyone to mourn his passing.
Sending you all kinds of love to you
Martha and the Boys
My condolences to the whole Brayton family.Learned a lot about merchandising and treating people with kindness.
Micheala I’m so sorry to hear the sad news about Don. Jim and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family. I’m sorry we cannot make it to the funeral service. Hopefully we can touch base with you when we come to Kelowna.
Big hugs to you
Jim and Maryanne
So very sorry for your loss, Michaela, Darren, Kellie and families.. Sending our Love and prayers.
Don You will sure be missed a special person in so many lives. I was fortunate enough to know you and work with you back in the Dynamic Golf Days. I am grateful for our friendship & memories over all the years.
Today is your celebration of life and I will fondly remember great memories and toast you with a Rum and Coke in your honour.
My Heart drops for you Michaela, Kellie, Darren and the entire Brayton Family. Don was one of the finest great sense of Humour and was the only one that always called me by full Name
Kimberley Ann! Rest in Peace my Friend
❤️🙏❤️
So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Wonderful memories going all the way back to his days as an Assistant at Earl Grey.
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Don Brayton’s family. Although, I only had the opportunity to meet him a few times, I felt as though I knew him well through his daughter, Kellie, my best friend, who spoke of him so often and with such love.
He was deeply loved and respected, and he leaves behind a truly beautiful legacy. Don lived life on his own terms, and while he had a great passion for golf, it was clear that his greatest passion was his family —- his wife, his son, his granddaughter and his beloved Princess, Kellie.
He will be deeply missed.
Don gave me golf lessons at Shawnee Slopes way back when. Don for sure be inducted into our heavenly golf hall of fame. Along with the likes of Dick Munn, Burt Drysdale, Neil Green, Malcolm Tapp. Just to name a few. R I P Don
Dear Michaela, Very sorry to hear of Don’s passing. I would surely have been at his service at Springfield Funeral Home, but unfortunately I did not hear about Don’s death until it had gone by. He was a fine gentleman, and I will miss sharing my golf successes and failures with him at the “Gentleman’s Club” at Balmoral on Wednesdays. He will be sadly missed. My sincerest sympathies. Jeff.