We Remember
SJURSET, Donald Olaf
April 17, 1947 — December 23, 2022
The family of Donald Olaf Sjurest is deeply saddened to announce his sudden passing on Friday, December 23, 2022, at the age of 75.
Don was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on April 17, 1947. He spent his childhood growing up with his two older sisters Terry and Elizabeth, his mother Theresa, and his father John. John was a carpenter and taught the trade to Don, who worked as a carpenter on and off throughout his adulthood. Don also became a Chef, working in various restaurants in the Vancouver, BC area.
Throughout his adulthood, Don battled alcohol and drug addiction. Contact with the family was lost several times during this period. At age 60, Don was able to reconnect with his sisters and moved up to Kelowna, BC to be closer to family. With family support, he was able to beat his addictions and become a valuable member of society. He became an NA group leader and became a shelter support worker at the Gospel Mission. He worked at Freedom’s Door and the Kalano Club and volunteered making meals and giving monthly donations to feed the homeless.
Don was predeceased by his father, John Olaf Sjurset and his mother, Theresa Christine (née Brossard) Sjurset. He will be lovingly remembered by his two sisters Terry Heemskerk and Elizabeth Noble; his brother-in-law Harry Heemskerk; his nieces and nephews, Sandi (Dave), Buzz (Val), Tim, Jen (Cam), Ben (Leanne), Brad (Veronica), Barb, and Louise (Michel); and by many great-nieces & -nephews.
Don will be remembered for his faith, generosity, and his larger than life personality which is etched in all our hearts.
Help Don’s kindness, loyalty, and compassion continue by making a donation to Kelowna’s Gospel Mission, kelownagospelmission.ca, an organization Don felt strongly about.
Please join our family in honouring the life of Don on SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2023, at 11:00 am, at SAINT PIUS X ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH (1077 Fuller Ave, Kelowna, BC). Family would love for everyone to join them at the church hall for a lunch after the service to share stories of remembrance.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
LIVESTREAM: Livestream link, provided by the Church
Service
SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2023, at 11:00 am
Location
ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH
We were saddened to learn of the loss of your brother & uncle. May the memories you created with him, the giving way he lived his final years, and what he passed on to you provide you with much comfort and strength during these days. Sending much love your way during this difficult time.
I send my deepest condolences and am sorry for your loss. I will remember Donald as a man of great dignity in his recovery.
Donald was a very generous person as he thought of others in need before himself. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and often presented a motion to donate to his favorite charities and always was accepted by the members.
Rest well Don and we will miss you. – Ernie Poitras
What a lovely tribute. I remember well the conversations I had with Uncle Don, especially those around his love of cooking and his work in restaurants. I can only imagine the ingredients and opportunities for cooking he’ll have after the resurrection. Until then I’ll imagine him in heaven, chatting with Sebastian. Terry and Betty, may you feel the comfort only the great comforter can provide.
Maria and I like to express her condolences for the loss of Don. He had a bit of a winding path, but in the end he was able to take the straight path of help for others. I’m sure that he left many grateful for the help, that he gave them.