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Harbourview Funeral Centre

499 N. Cumberland St.

Thunder Bay, Ontario

DONALD GALVIN Obituary

DONALD GALVIN
Donald Thomas Percy Galvin passed away on February 28, 2026 at St Joseph's Hospital, with his son Dan and daughter Gail by his side. He was 89 years old.

Donald started working at a young age and was proud to be part of the team who built the highway that joined east to west in Northwestern Ontario which later became the Trans-Canada Highway. The majority of Don's working career was with the Ministry of Transportation as a plow driver/equipment operator, where he was lucky to retire early. He was known amongst his fellow MTO co-workers as "The man with a toothpick in his mouth and a rag in his back pocket." Don was always eager to share one of his many stories from his plowing days.

When Donald was not working, he was happiest while fishing and spending time boating on the lake at camp. Evenings were enjoyed eating fish (catch of the day) and playing cards (especially cribbage) or enjoying a song by campfire. Donald was an avid musician who played guitar and banjo. He was proud to be part of a band who performed for weddings and parties. Along with his love for music, Donald was a wonderful dancer who waltzed and two-stepped many weekends at the Moose Hall or Elks Lodge. When Donald retired, he was one of many snowbirds who enjoyed winters in Arizona.

Donald is survived by his son Daniel; daughter-in-law Diane and grandson Kyle; daughter Gail; son David, and son Ted. He is also survived by his brother Gary; nephew Garth (Carolyn); nephew Darcy (Marsha), and stepbrother Ian McKenzie.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, sister Violet, sister Winnie, sister-in-law Margaret, his dearest companion Patricia Kovacs and the mother of his children Karen.

Special thank you to the staff at St. Joseph's Hospital for your compassion, patience, and keeping Dad comfortable in his final days.

In lieu of flowers donations made to St. Joseph's Care group would be greatly appreciated. Cremation has already taken place, and no public service will be held.

Condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Mar. 3, 2026.

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Rod Bishop

March 11, 2026

I worked with Don for several years at MTO. You couldn’t help but appreciate his infectious smile and laugh. He was a wealth of stories and a hard worker. Those were the days! RIP Don it was great to know you.

Kevin Orok

March 7, 2026

Don was the real deal, very smart and loyal client for over 30 years. Always cheerful and said he felt lucky to be alive. He would arrive at my office in less time than a helicopter but didn't like paying $6.00 for a coffee. I will miss our visits + friendship. My sincere condolences to his family.

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Harbourview Funeral Centre

499 N. Cumberland St., Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4R9