Bellaire, Don #200 *

Honoured by Diane Bellaire

Don Bellaire was born Oct. 23, 1951, in Mattawa, ON, to Arthur and Florence Bellaire. He was the youngest of ten children and very much enjoyed his family, friends and life in a small town. But from a very young age, Don had big dreams. His aspirations led him to the big city of Toronto. With his young wife Diane by his side, he moved to Toronto in 1971, and it was there that they raised their two children.

Don was not afraid of hard work. He saw it as an opportunity for self-education. Once in Toronto, he landed a job as a forklift truck technician for Lansing. This job led him to meet many people as he travelled the city, servicing forklift trucks at various companies. He enjoyed his job and the connections he made along the way. Through hard work and determination, he worked his way up within this heavy equipment company, which is known as Strongco Inc. today. He became a General Manager in the company sales department which led him to Montreal. There, he also oversaw the product support in the Atlantic Provinces.

Don also had other interests. He enjoyed his family and friends. He loved to entertain at home, cook great meals and listen to country music. Don and Diane were always known to throw a good party. Don always said “the more the merrier!” He was also a musician in his own rite. He played the guitar and sang. Hank Williams and George Jones tunes were among his favorites and known trade marks at a party. While Don loved to have lots of family and friends around him, he did not need them to enjoy himself. There were times when it was just he and Diane. He would put the music on, and they would dance in the middle of the living room floor and entertain themselves. He was outgoing and a lot of fun.

One of Don’s goals in life was to retire at age 55 and to move back to the North Bay area, which he did. But shortly after he retired, Don was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Because of his positive attitude, the will to live and the courage to beat this cancer, he lived a year longer than expected. He enjoyed his home on Callander Bay and the many friends and family members who filled it with happy times and good memories until his passing on May 29, 2010. He was a loving husband to Diane, father to Tracy and Jason, pappy to Aedan and Emily, brother and friend.

Don was a smart, resourceful man. He worked hard and played hard. He always said, “Whatever you are going to be in life, be the best.” He lived by that, and reminded his children to live by that each day. He was a good friend that way too, because he gave his best to all those around him. He could always be depended on when you needed a friend. Don offered support and words of comfort and encouragement, in good times and in bad.

Don will always be remembered for his bravery, persistence, determination and never giving up in life. He showed up in life. In turn, he inspired others to achieve, to know more and do more. He also taught us to take the time to enjoy life.

We cannot bring back the old days, when we were all together, but secret tears and loving thoughts will live with us forever.