STEEN, DONALD EARL
It is with deep sadness that the family of Don Steen, husband of the late Jacqueline (Everett) Steen, announces his sudden passing which occurred on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Devon, NB on February 2, 1924, Don was the son of the late Frank W. and Ellen Jane (Saunders) Steen, both of Woodlands, NB.
All his working life Don was a dedicated employee of Canadian Pacific Railway and Smith Transport, rising to the rank of Regional Manager.
Don was a master contract bridge player, winning many tournaments with his partner and wife Jacquie at the Riverside Golf and Country Club and in Kennebecasis Park.
He had a passion for hockey which started on the frozen St. John River at North Devon, Fredericton. As a boy he lost the sight of one eye in pursuit of that sport, an injury that prevented him from joining his friends in the war effort despite repeated attempts to enlist in all three branches of the armed forces.
After retirement he took particular joy in market analysis and investment strategy. His one aim in life was to be a good provider and a conscientious husband and father. Family connections were paramount. Don was a proud member of the Central New Brunswick Welsh Society. Always a consummate gentleman Don will be greatly missed by his circle of friends and relatives.
Don is survived by his daughters, Judith Willis (Stephen) of Rothesay and Jana Steen of St. John’s NL; grandchildren, Alexander Willis and Susan Willis both of Toronto, ON and Rachel Willis of Calgary, AB as well as his nieces and nephews, Betty Craig, Jim Steen, Bonnie Danielson, David, Terry and Susan Ludford. The family would like to thank “adopted family member” Lois Kilpatrick for all her years of assistance as a caregiver to both Don and Jacquie.
In addition to his wife, Jacqueline, and his parents, Don was predeceased by his brother, Warren Steen (Dorothy); his sister, Ina Ludford and by his grandson, David Willis.
Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424) with visiting on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2015 at 2:00 pm from Brenan’s Funeral Home Chapel.
For those who wish, remembrances made to the Salvation Army or the Nancy Teed Foundation (David Willis Scholarship Fund) or the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences can be placed at www.brenansfh.com