In Loving Memory
Donald Joseph Connolly (Don)
1945 - 2025

With great sadness we announce the passing of Don Connolly on April 7, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Michele O’Connor, his sisters-in-law Joan Butcher and Margaret Leitenberger (Mary Balsdon and Patricia Telfer having pre-deceased him). He also leaves many much-loved nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and some very dear friends, especially Pat Purcell.

Don was pre-deceased by his parents, Joseph and Phoebe Connolly. He was born and raised in Toronto and spent his life here except for a period in 1969–1970 when he enjoyed teaching skiing at Val d’Isere in France. After his graduation from Lawrence Park Collegiate he attended Waterloo Lutheran University. It took him a while to find his calling, but he did so as a marine Captain with Mariposa Cruise Lines from the mid eighties until 2021. He was also a realtor for almost 25 years. Throughout that period Don was an active member of the steering committee for the annual charity event “Set Sail for Hope”, raising funds so children with cancer could attend camp.

Don’s passion was skiing which he continued until 2023. He was also an avid golfer and played into his late seventies. Both were played with joy and love, in the company of Michele and some of his long-time dear friends. His sense of humour was particularly memorable during these games and pretty much everywhere he went. It was sly and it often snuck upon you unexpectedly. He was also a kind, generous, thoughtful and fun-loving man. He will be sorely missed.

Thank you to the wonderful staff of 3 north at Baycrest Apotex who cared for him with great skill and genuine fondness over this past year during his difficult journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

A memorial service to celebrate Don’s life will be held at 11 am on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Friends, family, and those whose lives Don touched are welcome to join in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Don’s and Michele’s wishes, donations to Baycrest would be appreciated, or to the charity of your choice.