Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
DONALD THATCHER Obituary
THATCHER
Donald Robert Thatcher, 74, passed away peacefully on January 5th, 2026 with his loving wife of 51 years at his side after a brave fight with cancer. Don was born and raised in Fort William, attending both Westgate and Churchill high schools. He later earned a diploma in mechanical engineering technology from Ryerson Polytechnic Institute, and returned to Thunder Bay where he put his diploma to work at the local train plant. He was hired by Hawker Sidley, retired under Bombardier, and saw many other owners come and go. He retired in 2008 after 34 years of service. As a very principled person, he was a dedicated member of his union local, at various times holding every position on the union executive committee and negotiating many of the union's contracts over the years. In his free time, Don enjoyed hunting and fishing, boating, and was an avid motorsports fan. He was also the Recording Secretary of the Westfort Prosvita Fish and Game Club for about 40 years.
Don was predeceased by his parents Flo and Ted Thatcher, and by his parents-in-law Mona and Ray Seguin.
He is survived by his wife, Rae Anne, as well as his children, Kelly and Dean (Leah), and his sister, Jan (Bob Kemp) and brother Jack (Pat). Many other relatives and friends also survive.
Cremation has taken place. As Don wished to be laid to rest at his beloved Oliver Lake, a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date, when the ice is off the lake.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
Donald Robert Thatcher, 74, passed away peacefully on January 5th, 2026 with his loving wife of 51 years at his side after a brave fight with cancer. Don was born and raised in Fort William, attending both Westgate and Churchill high schools. He later earned a diploma in mechanical engineering technology from Ryerson Polytechnic Institute, and returned to Thunder Bay where he put his diploma to work at the local train plant. He was hired by Hawker Sidley, retired under Bombardier, and saw many other owners come and go. He retired in 2008 after 34 years of service. As a very principled person, he was a dedicated member of his union local, at various times holding every position on the union executive committee and negotiating many of the union's contracts over the years. In his free time, Don enjoyed hunting and fishing, boating, and was an avid motorsports fan. He was also the Recording Secretary of the Westfort Prosvita Fish and Game Club for about 40 years.
Don was predeceased by his parents Flo and Ted Thatcher, and by his parents-in-law Mona and Ray Seguin.
He is survived by his wife, Rae Anne, as well as his children, Kelly and Dean (Leah), and his sister, Jan (Bob Kemp) and brother Jack (Pat). Many other relatives and friends also survive.
Cremation has taken place. As Don wished to be laid to rest at his beloved Oliver Lake, a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date, when the ice is off the lake.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Jan. 17, 2026.
Memories and Condolences
for DONALD THATCHER
Sponsored by Northwest Funeral Alternative.
1 Entry
Jack Winn
January 29, 2026
I met Donnie in 1970 as we both started at Ryerson. He was a treaured friend for over 50 years. Rae Anne, Kelly and Dean my heart aches along with you. I'm gonna miss his fabulous Elmer Fudd.
How you can show support
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in DONALD THATCHER's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for DONALD THATCHER
Funeral services provided by:
Northwest Funeral Alternative428 Balmoral Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5G8