Donald Cryer, age 76 years, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025 at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre with his family by his side.
Donald was born July 24, 1949 to William and Jean Cryer in Port Arthur, Ontario. He worked as a crane operator at Lakehead Scrap Metal where he was known for his hard work and sense of humour, until his retirement in 2016. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and exploring his family heritage through Ancestry and visits to the library. Don had a gift for making people laugh, often with a perfectly timed dad joke that became his signature style of humour. The greatest joy of his life was time spent with his grandson, Owen. They shared music, video games, ice cream, Mini-Putt, and many, many interesting conversations.
Don was predeceased by his parents and siblings Bill Cryer, Brian Cryer (Sharon), Fred Cryer (Peggy), Ralph Cryer, and Gloria Drew (Don). He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 45 years, Bonnie Cryer; his son Joseph Cryer; his daughter Shannan Power (John); his grandson Owen Janhunen and numerous nieces and nephews Diane Frowen (Gordon), Peggy Cryer, Fred Cryer (Rachel), John Cryer, Cheryl Smith, Sharon Drew (Justin), Donald Drew, Wendy Baglien (Bob), Bill Cryer and Susan Phillips. He will also be missed by numerous great-nieces and great-nephews whose love, support, and countless visits brought him great happiness over the years.
Donald's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to his family doctor Dr. Graham Exley and to the many incredible specialists who supported his care over the years; to the compassionate staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre during his final days; and to the family and friends who surrounded him with love, laughter, and stories.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Don's memory may be made to the Our Hearts at Home Campaign through the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be offered at
www.harbourviewfuneral.caPublished by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Oct. 8, 2025.