Donald Ernest Bruhjell passed away peacefully on April 19, 2006, at the Bulkley Valley District Hospital.
Donn leaves behind his loving wife Helen of 56 years; children daughter-in-law Linda (Rick’s widow), Randy, Debbie (Trevor). Tanya (Guido), and Linda (Kevin); as well as 16 precious grandchildren and an adorable great-granddaughter.
Donn was predeceased by his oldest son Rick in December 2005.
Also survived by sister Mae (Glenn) and stepbrother Gordon, as well as his extended family and numerous nieces and nephews.
Donn was born on November 10, 1929, in Oyan, Alberta, and he spent his childhood years in Calgary and the Barrhead area. In 1947 he moved out to Houston with a group of friends and went to work in the bush.
Donn met Helen in Smithers and they were married on July 22, 1949. After moving to Kitimat for a short period, they moved back to Smithers and purchased the Oulton farm on the Telkwa High Road in 1960. Donn spent the next 46 years farming, first in the dairy business and then raising beef cattle. He was also an owner/operator in various aspects of the trucking industry.
Donn was an active member in the community and participated on several organizations such as Bulkley Valley Credit Union, Bulkley Valley Dairymen’s Association, Bulkley Valley Cattlemen’s Association, Smithers Farmers Institute, Regional District and the Glenwood Hall Committee.
He loved the farm life and spending time with his family. In Donn’s spare time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and reading.
His loving family, friends and neighbours will sadly miss Donn.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 30, 2006, at 1:00 p.m. at the Glenwood Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the B.V. 4-H Council, c/o Lori Brook, 11325 Brooks Road, Telkwa, B.C., V0J 2X2.
The funds to be used for educational trips for members of the Bulkley Valley 4-H Clubs.