07 September 1937-25 January 2026
We are heartbroken to share that our dear husband, father, and grandfather, Donald Morgan Everts, has passed away at the age of 88.
Donald was born in Port Arthur on September 7, 1937. He peacefully left us on January 25th with his family surrounding him.
Don will be remembered as a warm and generous person who spent his life helping others. He was known for his strong work ethic and quiet determination. He found happiness in hands-on projects. The many tasks he completed for family and friends and the structures he built will stand for years as proof of his skill and care. He truly was a “jack of all trades” “firefighter moonlighter.” In his younger days, he loved spending time outdoors camping, fishing, and golfing. Most importantly, he cherished caring for his wife and family and enjoyed quiet moments with them.
Having stepped into the role of man of the house early on, Don held various jobs during his life, including positions at Co-Op Dairy, John Deere, and Lakehead Freightways-jobs he often recalled fondly. His last career started when he joined the Port Arthur Fire Dept in 1963 in the Ambulance Section. After the cities merged, he became a firefighter with Thunder Bay Fire Rescue and retired in 1993 after three decades of service. Even after retiring, Don stayed active in the community by serving as a school crossing guard with the City of Thunder Bay for over 20 years; this role was very meaningful to him as it focused on keeping local kids safe. In retirement, he also loved spending time with family while enjoying hours tinkering in his workshop.
Don is survived by his wife Gwen Everts after 62 wonderful years together; son Don Jr. (Debra) Everts; daughters Brenda Everts, Kerry (Jeff) Hansen, and Shelley (Stephen) Harris. His grandchildren Donovan (Raven), Ethan (Taylor), Amy Everts; Joel (Pippa), Erin (Brett), Tara Hansen; Brandon (Greg), Reilly (Jordana), Josh (Karissa), Paige (Justin) Harris; Kim (Mike) Viheriasalo and Kelly (Billy) Viheriasalo will miss him dearly along with great-grandchildren Kaiden, Easton, and baby boy Glena expected in April; sisters-in-law Robertta (Veikko) and Isobel Oliver; plus numerous nieces, nephews, cousins-all whom brought him pride during their visits.
He was predeceased by parents William and Winnifred Everts; brother Gary Everts; sister-in-law Dawn Everts; in-laws Bruce and Isobel Gordon; brother-in-law James Oliver; son-in-law Glen Viheriasalo along with many extended family members who were close to him.
The family wishes to thank the medical staff at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital along with Wesway VON Ontario Health at Home for their compassionate care during these past months. We also appreciate everyone who offered condolences or kindness during this tough time. Don’s immense love for his wife and family will always be remembered by us all. He’ll be greatly missed but lives on through our memories-the stories from his life will stay alive.
Cremation has already taken place. We’ll announce a Celebration of Life come springtime.
You can share your condolences at www. sargentandson. com.
In honor of our Dad’s memory, we encourage you to sit down with loved ones to share stories while enjoying your favorite drink-moments that meant so much to him.
