Obituary of Donald Harris

Donald Clayton Harris passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 22nd, 2024 after a courageous seven-year battle with multiple myeloma. He was 88 years old.

Born to Phyllis and Clayton Harris, Don grew up in Bear River, Nova Scotia. He pursued higher education at Acadia University before earning a Ph.D. in mineralogy from the University of Toronto. Don’s career was distinguished by his work at Energy, Mines and Resources in Ottawa, where his significant contributions to mineralogy were honored with a mineral named after him — Donharrisite.

Don was the beloved husband of Diane, his partner for nearly 55 years. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure. He was a devoted father to William (Sharon), Elizabeth (Calvin), David (Claire), Dan (Pam) and Candy (family dog); a cherished grandfather to Cassandra (Daniel), Patricia (Mark), Malaika, Jessica (Aaron), Kirk, Hartley (Anna), Neil and Shawn; and a proud great-grandfather to Lucas, Madelyn, Eden and Ruth.

A sports enthusiast, Don’s two great passions were curling and golf. He and Diane enjoyed both playing and watching these sports together, forming many lifelong friendships along the way. After his retirement, Don excelled in golf, winning several senior championships at the Rideauview Golf Club and never letting his children win against him.

Don and Diane spent their entire life in Ottawa, with many early summers spent in Nova Scotia visiting family. For 38 years, they cherished their time at their cottage on Lac Barnes, creating countless memories with family and friends.

Don’s greatest strength was his resilience and determination. Even in his eighties, he fought his illness with remarkable courage, giving his family and friends many more cherished years with him.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, strength, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be held at the Pinecrest Visitation Centre, 2500 Baseline Road on Saturday, August 31st, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.  

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the Canadian Blood Services or the Canadian Cancer Society, in honor of Don's brave fight and the support he received.