Obituary of Donald Anderson

ANDERSON, Donald Martin - Passed away peacefully at home, on his own terms and surrounded by his family on Saturday July 1, 2017. He was in his 81st year. He fought his battle with cancer the same way he lived - with courage, strength and dignity. Don was the devoted husband of Maris (MacPherson) for 54 years. Dearly loved father of Elizabeth and Bryan Todd, Michael and Marilena Anderson, Jane and Mark Alden, and Susie and Chris Leonard. Very proud Poppa of Kyle, Bailey and Mackenzie Todd; Lauren, Jack, Brett and Blake Anderson; Ryan, Tyler and Rachel Alden; Taya and Owen Leonard. Beloved brother of Marilyn Summerfeldt and brother-in-law of Jack MacPherson. Uncle of Donna, Greg, Gordon and Andrew. Predeceased by his parents Norm and Aileen Anderson and his grandson Justin Alden. Don was the founder of Don Anderson Haulage Limited and will always be remembered as a passionate, loyal and dedicated member of the trucking industry. Don started Anderson Haulage in 1960 with one truck. Over the next 55+ years his vision and leadership led him from the gravel industry to a company specializing in the movement of over-dimensional loads. Trucking was the love of his life. His employees and colleagues were like family. The continued support and dedication of his employees has been key to the company's success over the years. In 2006, Don was awarded the Ontario Trucking Association Service to Industry Award, the highest honour bestowed on an executive member of the Ontario trucking industry. His unique character, genuine kindness and generosity will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched. Don prided himself on being honest and fair to all those he encountered. A special thank you to Dr. Andrew Patterson and the many doctors, nurses and medical professionals who cared for Don during his illness. The family extends their gratitude to Dr. Alan Berger who treated Don's macular degeneration for the past 12 years. In addition, we would like to thank Kevin, Helen, Stephanie, Dannie, Donna, John, Kathy and Melissa, for all their kindness and compassion in caring for Poppa this past year. Family will receive friends at DIXON GARLAND FUNERAL HOME, 166 Main Street N, Markham on Thursday July 6th from 2 to 9 pm and Friday July 7th from 5 to 9 pm. A Celebration of Don's Life will be held on Saturday July 8th at 11 am at LE PARC BANQUET HALL, 8432 Leslie Street, Thornhill. A private interment will be held at the Stouffville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Jennifer Ashleigh Children's Charity or St. Michael's Hospital Ophthalmology Department would be greatly appreciated. Both charities were very special to Don. Condolences can be made online at www.dixongarland.com. "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."