Campbell, Donald Kilgour (Don) (Died)

September 15, 1945-September 10, 2023

On September 10, 2023, Donald Kilgour Campbell ('DK') concluded a remarkable 78 year journey on this earth. Don's life was a tapestry of dedication, discovery, and resilience.

He was the cherished husband of Phoebe Campbell (née Melland) for four decades and the proud father of Lesley Campbell (Mike Suksi) and Colin Campbell (Natalie Harper). Brother to Janet (Ross) McCrimmon. His role as a grandfather to Dasch was one he embraced with joy. He was preceded by his parents, Katharine Campbell (née Kilgour) and Dr. Donald Dennison Campbell, as well as his first wife, Gladys Campbell (née Munro).

An alumnus of the University of Guelph, Don earned two degrees in Crop Science. His passion for the land was evident in his dedicated farming both in Dunnville and Embro (Bennington Station Farms), spanning over half a century.

Life's trials, including the untimely loss of Gladys at 33 and a life-altering collision with a deer at 55, only strengthened DK's resolve to live each day with purpose and to check things off his bucket list as soon as possible. His later years were enriched with pursuits such as competitive and recreational sailing, golf, reading, engaging in discussion groups, photography, and botanical hikes with the Field Botanists of Ontario, where he often sought out rare ferns and orchids.

A lifelong naturalist, DK planted hundreds of trees over his lifetime, expanded our knowledge of rare plant habitats, and was an avid bird watcher since childhood.

While there will be no traditional funeral, a garden gathering will be announced in the future, allowing friends and loved ones to share memories and celebrate DK 's life. In lieu of flowers, consider honoring Don's commitment to the environment by donating to The Nature Conservancy of Canada (www.natureconservancy.ca) or supporting the VON Sakura House (www.vonsakurahouse.com). In memory of Don's love for literature, he hoped that individuals would purchase two books by Canadian authors from local bookstores, like Fanfare Books in Stratford: one for a young reader in your life and another for personal enjoyment, to be passed on when the time feels right.