It is with profound sadness that the family of Donald Camille Joseph Goguen, announce his peaceful passing on May, 8, 2025 at age 61 years at Toronto General Hospital. Don was born on July 18, 1963 in Shediac, New Brunswick.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Verbena, son Scott, daughter Jenna (Gregory), Brother Tony, Sister Shelly(Marcus), Brothers & Sisters in law: Joan (Brian), Nataline (Joe), Rick (Kimberly) Charles(Suzanne), Bruce (Susan) as well as his loved Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, extended family and friends.

Don led a full and fun life on his terms with no regrets.

A very proud Canadian, Don enlisted at 18 years old and served our country in The Canadian Armed Forces. He was honoured to be a cook with The Royal Canadian Navy on several different vessels. He was humble and it took him years to accept his Veteran status as he felt others had given more to our country than him.
Don went on to receive his Red Seal Certification as a Chef. He mentored many aspiring chefs over the years to receive their certification. He took great pride in each and every success.
His life then brought him back to NS where he spent the next 14 years as a Cook in a Federal Prison. Even in the toughest of jobs he could still see the good in people.
His next 5 years were spent as a Director in a Nursing home in Cape Breton where he valued his staff and loved his time with the residents. He finished his work life as a manager at Sunset Community in Pugwash. To say he loved his clients would be an understatement. He treasured every interaction and was always thinking of ways to improve their lives. He valued his staff and coworkers. He spoke so highly of them. It was difficult for him to finally admit due to health issues he should retire.

Don was diagnosed with Idopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in 2020. A journey that brought him, Verbena & Scott to Toronto for the last 15 months of his life. He underwent a Single Lung transplant in June 2024 that was unsuccessful. On December 26,2024 Don received a second gift, this time a Double Lung Transplant. The next 132 days were spent in ICU at Toronto General with Verbena by his side. He received the most amazing care but sadly could not recover from several severe infections and kidney failure. His new lungs were working but his body was just too tired and weak. Don passed peacefully to be with his loved ones in heaven on Thursday, May 8th. His Mom (Marjorie), Dad (Camille), Grandparents, childhood friend Jeff and many other dear relatives were waiting for him at Heaven’s gates. Don was and is a true Transplant Warrior and his fight is an inspiration to many.

Don loved his children with everything in him. They brought so much joy to his life. Don loved going to hockey games and wrestling with Scott. His love of drag racing saw him and Jenna heading to Miramachi each Sept for Dad/Daughter time. He spent many hours cooking with Jenna by his side helping.

Don and Verbena found a rare, deep love that brought so much happiness to both of them for the past 11 years. They enjoyed music, travelling, quiet nights by the fire, time with family/friends, long hours of conversation and a desire to give to others. They were truly soulmates.

Don was a kind man who gave humbly, never needing or wanting recognition. His heart was bigger than he would admit and he had a soft, gentle side that he tried to hide. Those that were close to him knew just who he was and knew the amazing attributes of the man they loved.

Don loved his time riding his ATV with Scott as his co pilot. Don was a Special Olympic Coach and Hockey coach in years past and spent many hours volunteering at animal shelters.

Don was a lover of fine food and never missed an opportunity to try a new restaurant. His appreciation of a burger and homemade fries often saw him standing in line at a local food truck or barbequing for get togethers.

Don shared many happy times with his best friend of over 40 years. Ken was there for Don during his illness, providing support and guidance. They loved sports, good food and hours just talking. Don truly valued Ken’s friendship and love.

Don will be remembered for the kindness and love he showed to his friends and family. He truly loved each of them- and if you knew him, you knew it. He will be missed dearly. Don would want each of us to be kind to one another, show compassion for those less fortunate and always tell the ones we love how much they mean to us. Don was blessed to receive two lung transplants from donors and families. Please consider being an organ donor. Don’s journey was not successful but many are, it is truly the most selfless gift we can give. Don is at peace and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held on July 19th, 2-5 pm at Big Lake Camp, Victoria 10029, Highway #204, Oxford, NS.

As Don would say, bring your appetite because no party is complete without lots to eat. This is the party Don & Verbena had planned for their return home to thank their loved ones for their amazing support. It will now be held as Don’s going away party.