ROSTEN, Donald Arthur Odvin
1952 - 2017
We are saddened to announce that on the morning of September 5, 2017, surrounded by his family, Donald Arthur Odvin Rosten passed away and joined his Mother Doris and his Father Arthur in heaven. Don is survived by his former wife Penny and their 3 children: Carolyn (Damon) Genest, Jocelyn (Chris) Malcolm and Paul (Alicia) Rosten - as well as 4 grandchildren: Caleb (14) and William (10) Genest, along with Ledger (2) and Everly (3 months) Malcolm. Don was born in Preeceville on August 14, 1952 and grew up an only child on the family homestead. When he was just 13, his father unexpectedly passed away leaving Don to care to all of his family's affairs. Don's strong character and work ethic allowed him to care for his mother and manage the family's business all while still completing his high school diploma resulting in multiple post-secondary scholarship offers. He completed his Bachelor of Commerce at the U of S in 1974 and earned his Chartered Accountant designation in 1977. Don joined the accounting firm Price Waterhouse shortly after university and through his continued hard work and ambition, achieved his CPA and CMC designations while earning his way to become a managing partner for the firm, overseeing both the Saskatoon and Regina offices. Because of his entrepreneurial spirit, Don was always looking to create new opportunities to grow. Alongside family members, he began a wholesale lumber supply business, now called Home Building Centre. At age 45, Don withdrew from the partnership at Price Waterhouse to pursue different ventures. After a period providing business consulting services Don, and subsequently 2 other men named Don, founded Dimension 3 Hospitality. Today, Dimension 3 and d3h Hotels, with Don Rosten as CEO, employ more than 300 people across Alberta and Saskatchewan, an achievement he was quite proud of. 2018 would have marked his 20th year leading the d3h family who, at many times, referenced Don as members of their family. While he placed value on "starting at the bottom," Don took pride in offering his vast knowledge as a humble guide and yet never expected anything in return. Although being deeply respected in the business community, Don never sought notoriety, praise or individual accolades but rather he found a great sense of accomplishment in watching those he had helped succeed. He volunteered on numerous board of directors including LutherCare Communities, LCBI, the ELCIC, the Saskatoon Symphony, Kinasao, the Diabetes Association and one of his favorites – a member of the Intensely Vigorous College Nine at the University of Saskatchewan as the lead saxophone player. Family was always very important to Don, and through d3h, all of his children were provided on opportunity to work with him. Don enjoyed escaping to the family cabin at Christopher Lake and in past years, loved to waterski and golf. His faith in God was prevalent and he attended Kinasao as often as possible and enjoyed playing in the band and singing in the choir at Good Shepherd and Zion Lutheran Church. Although they separated after 34 years, Don and Penny remained good friends and would frequently enjoy coffee together. He loved his grandchildren, attending numerous hockey games and family events and was always happy to see the kids having fun together. He loved animals, especially his dogs Lore and Sully. This past Christmas, Don was able to travel to Norway and meet his extended Rosten family for the first time while staying at the Norwegian homestead his grandparents originally emigrated from. This was a lifelong dream of his that he accomplished with his whole family by his side. Don was an intelligent, hardworking man of God who genuinely cared for others. He was a loving father who always took care of his family. He will be sorely missed by all who he touched, but by none more than his children. Flowers can be sent Friday or Monday for inclusion at his funeral service to 1139 8th Street East. A time of visitation and viewing will be open to the public at Acadia McKague's Funeral Centre 915 Acadia Drive, Saskatoon on Friday, September 8, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. A formal Celebration of Life service with communion will be held at Circle Drive Alliance Church Monday, September 11 at 2:00 .pm. A lunch will follow. Donations can be made in his honor to the Cameco Community Renal Health Centre through St. Paul's Hospital Foundation, 1702 20th Street West, Saskatoon, SK, S7M 0Z9. A sincere thank you to all the staff at the dialysis unit for caring so deeply for Don for the past 10 years. Messages of remembrance may be left for the family at www.acadiamckaguesfuneralcentre.com
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40 Entries
September 16, 2017
Bob Anderson
My sincere and deepest condolences to Don's immediate and extended family on his passing. A business colleague of mine, I had the privilege of working with him in several business ventures over the years. I can't think of a more talented, modest or fair-minded business person than Don, made all the more remarkable by his complete lack of hubris and entitlement. He was so humble in his many accomplishments, and always made sure others benefited from his ventures as much as possible. Don suffered greatly with health issues in later life, but I don't ever recall him complaining about it. He seemed to accept it as part of life, and God's plan for him. May he rest in eternal peace now, freed at last from his pain.
September 15, 2017
Norm Demeulenaere
Sorry to hear of the passing of Don. Thoughts and prayers to all of his family during this difficult time.
Home Hardware Stores Limited
September 13, 2017
I was so sad to hear of Don's death. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Penny at this sad time..
Verna Anderson
September 12, 2017
We were sorry to learn of Don's passing.
Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time, Penny.
Thoughts and Prayers from Mark and Marilyn Jacobson.
September 12, 2017
A wonderful childhood cousin to play with at Preeceville SK, every Sunday, in the hay loft, elevator, farmyard, while parents visited. Excelled at every venture in life with the tremendous Rosten/Strand work ethic, passion and perseverance. All accomplishments with the highest integrity, which is so remarkable with the health challenges. A legacy few could ever attain. We salute you Don, and you will forever, be in our hearts, mind and memories. Warren & Tillie Phoenix. Mundare, AB
September 11, 2017
Patti Tomlinson
It is with saddened hearts that we learnt of Donnie's passing. Donnie is one of my mom's (Verna Walker) favourite nephews. Donnie always kept in touch with her and she loved him dearly. We were able to go to Saskatoon 3 years ago and had a wonderful visit with the family. We had great times as kids when we would visit the farm. Donnie was always so positive, We will always remember the twinkle in his eye and his big smiles and contagious laughter Donnie was just a wonderful person and we were blessed to have him in our lives. He will be greatly missed
September 11, 2017
Please accept my condolence on the loss of Don. Although I only knew him for a brief time, I admired him very much. I'm sure he will be missed by everyone he touched. It was an honour to know him.
Sincerely, Jim Walters
September 11, 2017
Susan Johnson
On behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, I want to express our sympathies to Don's family and friends. We hold you in our prayers and know that God is holding you in strong and loving arms. I want to take the opportunity to offer thanksgiving for the many ways Don served the ELCIC, especially his time as treasurer. His witness of service will continue as a legacy. +Susan C. Johnson, National Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada
September 11, 2017
Lori O'Brien
Carolyn, Jocelyn, Penny, Paul and families, I'm so very sorry for your loss and pray that you can take comfort in all the great family memories made and what a great man he obviously was.
Lots of love on this day and always,
September 11, 2017
Ruth & Don Cherewayko
Jocelyn, we are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. We send our sincere condolences to you, Penny, Carolyn, Paul and families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 11, 2017
Stephanie Thorne
To all Don's family : I worked in the Cameco Unit & came to know him thru that process...a wonderful man & very generous ...please accept my sincerest condolences ...Sincerely, Stephanie Thorne
September 10, 2017
Barrie Bergsma
Dear Penny, Carolyn, Jocelyn, Paul and Families
Don had a huge impact on my life. I learned a lot and he gave me many opportunities in life. He was truly a great man and he did so much for First Nations businesses in Saskatchewan. He was always great to bounce ideas off of as he would sit back and rub his head and say, "Have you thought of this?" Of course I hadn't thought of it and it would be back to the drawing board. He will be greatly missed by people from all walks of life as Don was always willing to help anyone. May the wonderful memories of Don live in your hearts forever.
September 10, 2017
Vanessa Corkal
So saddened to hear of Don's passing. He was a wonderful man who left an indelible mark on his community. He will be missed.
September 10, 2017
Tim Le Drew
Dear Penny and family- you and all who love don are much in my thoughts and prayers these days. Don was a friend who was faithful, kind, generous and fun to be with. Love and peace. Tim Le Drew
September 10, 2017
Cheryl Erlandson
Don was a wonderful man and a huge blessing to our church. I served with him on church council at Good Shepherd for a number of years and learned a lot from him about first listening to others before speaking . I am so sorry for your loss. Unfortunately, Martin and I won't be there to celebrate his life and legacy, but we will be thinking about all of you.
September 10, 2017
Judy Grimwood
My condolences to your family at this sad time. Don was such a beautiful person.
September 9, 2017
Dawn Wirth
To Carolyn and family...Im very sorry for your loss...lots of love
September 9, 2017
Rest in peace cousin. I am very proud off all you accomplished and the way you lived your life. Perry Walker
September 9, 2017
Dear Penny and family:
Gill and I were very sorry to hear of Don,s passing. He wqs a great partner and a tireless worker who was always available to us when needed. His strenghth in leading the firm in Regina and Saskatoon was immeasurable and he was greatly missed when he left the firm. Our thoughts are with you Penny in this difficult time.
Lyle and Gill Pittman, West Kelowna B C
September 9, 2017
Patricia Clarkson
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I got to know Don very well while working at PW. Rest in Peace my friend. My prayers are with you all.
September 8, 2017
Thor and Margaret Kleiv
Our sympathy to Penny and family, we think back to several years ago when your father volunteered at the Norway Pavilion, we were then at Marion Graham school. He was a very special person.
September 8, 2017
Zelia Silva
Dear Carolyn, Jocelyn, and Paul please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your father. He was a great man that traveled this earth and left behind a great legacy in all of you. My thoughts and my prayers are with you all.
September 8, 2017
Rick and Noreen Agrey
To the Rosten family - We're so sorry to hear of Don's passing. Rick and I send our sympathy. We are thinking of you and know how much you will miss your wonderful dad, grandpa, and friend.
September 8, 2017
doug richardson
join in with many others in saluting the talent and hard work of a true gentlemen, busineesman and friend. His courage in the face of serious illness was remarkable. To those of his dear family he leaves behind, all should be so proud of his, many, kindly efforts. Rest in peace--my friend. doug Richardson, Saskatoon
September 8, 2017
Dave & Isabelle Haberman
Dear Penny, Carolyn, Jocelyn, Paul. So sorry to hear about Don's passing. He was a dear friend, colleague, and neighbour in both Az. and Saskatoon. Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to the family.
September 8, 2017
Dear Rosten family
Our sincere condolences to you all. Don will be missed by so many people. It was always a pleasure to serve with Don on many committees and boards. The expertise that he brought and his sense of humor was always appreciated. Blessings to you all. Carol and Garth Tastad
September 8, 2017
Donna & Paul Johnson
Our deepest condolences are being sent to you, Penny, and all the family. Don was a very hard-working & loving man, as anyone can see, by his accomplishments in business & in family. Cherish all the memories you shared together, and that will keep him close to your heart. Thinking of you & sending hugs.
September 8, 2017
Pat Buck (Moffat)
"Dear Carolyn, Jocelyn, Paul & families, It's been many years since I spent time with your family at Good Shepherd. I wish to express my condolences at the passing of your father. "
September 8, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers to the entire Rosten family on the loss of our good buddy Don; he was truly a gem and I have said for years that when Don passed away that he would be sitting at the right hand of God .
Les & Irene Cannam , Saskatoon
September 8, 2017
Nikki and Peter Gerrard
We were so sorry to hear of Don's passing. We had no idea he was ill. He was a quiet neighbour these last few years and we'll miss his coming and going. Our sympathy to Penny and the family.
September 8, 2017
Parker Donna
So sorry to hear about the passing of your father, father-in-law,and grandfather. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 8, 2017
Dorthy Hill
Dear Carolyn, Jocelyn, Paul and families. I am truly sorry to hear of your father's passing. It was an honor to get to know this brilliant man. He has enriched many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
September 8, 2017
Matt and Jess Ling
Chris and Jocelyn, what a touching tribute. It sounds like Jocelyns father was an extremely admirable man. Jess and I are thinking of you in this time.
September 8, 2017
Yvette B.
Thank you Mr. Rosten for your generous heart. We will always be grateful to you for giving us not just a job, but a workplace that feels like home. Our dear Lord will welcome you to His kingdom wholeheartedly.
September 7, 2017
Janet and Bryan Akre
Our sincere condolences to Penny, Carolyn, Jocelyn, Paul and the whole family.
Don was indeed an intelligent, warm man who gave freely of his time and abilities. May the Lord guide you in this difficult time and give you strength.
September 7, 2017
Maria Buenaventura
The Lord is My Shepherd
(Ezekiel 34:11-24; John 10:1-21)
1{A Psalm of David.} The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
--- praying for God's comfort to your family...
September 7, 2017
So sorry to hear of Don's passing. We were neighbors to the Rosten farm and Don and I rode the school bus together. So glad he made it to Preeceville for the 150 and we had a chance to touch base.Condolences to all. Agnes Petersen Murrin
September 7, 2017
Judy Ford
What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. Thank you Don, for hiring me and continually believing in me @d3h. You will be dearly missed.
September 7, 2017
Ron & Jennifer Day
Dear Penny, Carolyn,Jocelyn, Paul & families, so sorry to hear of your dad's passing, sending our sympathies at this time, praying for you in the days ahead as you grieve your loss, may all your wonderful memories of your time together somehow ease some of the sorrow. Sending our love
September 7, 2017
Gail Genest
Dear Carolyn, Damon and entire family. What a terrible loss for your all. You are in our thoughts during this very difficult time - saying good bye is so hard. Hold your memories close and you loved ones closer. Sincerest Sympathy. Allan and Gail Genest & family.
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