We Remember
HARDISTY, Donald
April 10, 1933 — February 6, 2024
It is with great sadness that I announce the sudden passing of my father Donald Hardisty on February 6, 2024, in the early morning hours after a brief illness, at the age of 90.
Don is survived by a host of family and friends. His loving wife of 57 years, Shirley; his daughter, Sheila (Dean); and grandsons, Conrad and Hudson, will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his mother Madeleine, his father Frederick, and brother Jack.
Don was born and raised in Victoria, BC before he moved to Vancouver in his early 20s. Often, he would reminisce about growing up around the James Bay area sharing “back in the day” memories and stories. Music was always an important part of Don’s life. In the earlier years, he played bass in the clubs in Victoria with the band The Continentals. In 1957, Don moved to Vancouver to pursue a fulfilling career in the music industry at CBC Radio. He enjoyed many years working as a Sound Technician where he expertly recorded and engineered a variety of music, shows, and events, both locally and as far away as Mexico and Japan.
One day, while on his runabout boat with some friends, Don met his beloved future wife, Shirley, who he married in 1966. Don and Shirley built their life together as long-time residents of West Vancouver, while he worked at CBC and onwards into retirement. Favourite pastimes for Don included walks on the Seawall, golf, gardening, and travel – especially to the sunny states of California and Hawaii. He also continued with his passion for music, often playing memorable tunes on the piano and keyboard for family and friends to enjoy. He had a great appreciation of many music styles including Soul, Pop, Jazz, and later in life Gospel music. He loved animals and was always happy to meet, spend time with, and help if needed any of our furry companions.
In 2018, Don and Shirley relocated to Kelowna, to be near family, and spent time with their daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons. He enjoyed the Okanagan with visits to the beaches and shops, trips to the ski hill, and walks at the dog park with the family dog, Roxy.
Don was a wonderful husband, awesome dad, and terrific grandfather, who was fun to be around and is lovingly remembered for his kindness, thoughtful ways, and good character. He had many friends and acquaintances and was well liked by all those who knew him. He lives on in our hearts and memories and will be greatly missed until we meet again someday.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life gathering on the North Shore of Vancouver. For more information, please connect with the family.
In Donald’s memory, donations may be made to any animal charity that benefits the life and well-being of our animal friends.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Condolence to Don’s family
A nicer man would be very hard to find RIP my friend
Dear Sheila. We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. So glad he made it to 90 in great shape. He was a wonderful man. He shares a birthday with my husband ( and your mum) so I kept sending them birthday greetings. Please let us know when and where the Celebration of life will be. I think of you all when I pass the 24th and Mathers corner, which now has a huge mansion.
Best wishes and hugs from Marny and John (Peirson)
To Don’s Family and Friends: He was an important part of the fabric of the “family” on T-Floor, where the technicians had their shop and the recording studios fanned out from that. Immediately upon hearing of his passing, I recalled vividly his warm personality, So loving, generous, funny and direct especially when it came to management stupidity. Reading about his early background, now I understand why he displayed such talent, although it was underused. So debonaire like a handsome star of an old movie. His smile that shone light into the darkest places. God speed him on his way.
My condolences to all the family of Don. Don was one of 2 mentors in the audio engineering industry, A master in the control room of Studio 1, and 2 in the new building and Studio A in The Vancouver Hotel. The Corp was blessed to have him.
I met Don in 1965 at CBC. He amazed us all with his special skill at mixing stereo music, considering the fact he was deaf in one ear. He was a joy to know and to work with.
Don was one if my earliest mentors at CBC Radio. He was always kind and generous with his time. He was a skilled mixer who always maintained his cool regardless of whether he was dealing with a demanding producer or a nervous star. My heartfelt condolences go to his family and I know Don was loved and will be missed .
Dear Shirley and family, Deepest sympathy and condolences on Don’s passing. I worked with him at CBC in Vancouver since 1964. He was a brilliant, patient and most helpful mentor and colleague in those early days and it was a privilege to be in his company, in and out of the radio studios. My family and I were fortunate in running into him following retirement at the CBC and we were able to stay in touch from time to time. He was such a positive, hearty and thoughtful colleague very much admired and treasured by those who worked with him. Warmest regards to you all.
I worked with Don on many CBC recordings and live shows over 30 years. He was my mentor and friend. He taught me how to be cool in stressful environments always with a smile. Sorry I didn’t get to visit after his retirement Linda and my condolences to Shirley and family
On behalf of Fran Greenhalgh, my sister Jackie and I would like to express sincere condolences to your family. Mum and Dad spent many evenings and golf games together with Shirley and Don. They enjoyed Shirley and Don’s love of life, sense of humor and selflessness whenever they were all together. Hugs to you all while you go through this horrible time in your lives.
Don was a wonderful guy to work with. He was an excellent engineer and a great companion on the golf course. We will miss our phone calls with Don and Shirley.
Just want to say thank-you so much for all the heartfelt remembrances and thoughtful condolences that have been shared. I was pleased to find this picture of my Dad from back in the early days at CBC thought I would share. It has been so nice to hear all the memories and stories from everyone and your support has meant a great deal to me and my family. Once again, thank-you. We very are grateful for your kindness during this time of loss. ❤️