Obituary of Harold Donald "Don" Bishop

HAROLD DONALD (‘DON’) BISHOP

March 27, 1929 – March 31, 2022

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Harold Donald (‘Don’) Bishop on March 31, 2022 in Ottawa at the age of 93. The middle of 7 children, Don  was the son of the late Peter and Miriam Bishop.  Predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Constance (‘Connie’, nee Garland).   

Following in his father’s footsteps as a radio operator, Don was a career federal public servant for over 37 years at Transport Canada, travelling throughout Canada and the world,

A proud Maritimer, with deep family roots in Newfoundland, Don was drawn to fish ‘n brewis, fresh lobster, and a sandy beach.   Born in Yarmouth, N.S., Don had fond memories of his childhood at Cape Race, Nfld and Moncton, N.B. where he and Connie attended Moncton High together, married, built a home and started a family.     

All who had the pleasure of knowing Don will recall his infectious smile, charm and sense of humour.   Friendships made throughout his life lasted a lifetime, enduring or becoming rekindled through his many interests and passions: golfing, curling, cottage life, travel and carpentry.   He built the family cottage from the ground up, and made most of the pine furniture in it.  He should have patented his many creative inventions that allowed him to do his finest work.  A lifelong fan of the weather, he could predict with eerie accuracy.

But Don’s greatest love was his family.   We remember a caring and resilient father, husband, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather, who provided well and selflessly for his family.   He was a model of kindness, humility and integrity - our guiding ‘North Star’.  Dad/‘Poppa’ showed us the way by quiet example: be honest, be sincere, and don’t be afraid to work for the things that you dream of.   He made each of us feel like we were more than enough.  

Don was blessed to have a long, happy, prosperous life surrounded by a loving family and devoted friends - his was a life well lived. 

Left in sorrow are daughter Valerie (Phil) of Ottawa, son Brooke (Carol) of Calgary, granddaughter Kirsten and dear great-grandson, Joshua.   Lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.   

The family would like to extend their thanks the PSWs and nursing staff at Carlingwood Retirement Community for their care of Don in recent years. 

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Don’s Life at the Pinecrest Visitation Centre, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa on June 25th at 11 am.   In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  Committal to follow at a later date in Nova Scotia.