Obituary of Donald Charles Lea

Peacefully passed away at the St. Catharines General Hospital on Tuesday, February 7th, 2023 in his 87th year. Son of the late Viola and Charles Lea. Father of the late Katharine Crawford. He was a cherished father and will be forever loved by his daughter Christine (Gary) Mason. Dear brother “Donny” to Nancy (the late Joseph), Frank (the late Peg), Robert (Sandy), Barbara (Brian) and Gary (Anita). He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and will be missed by his grand fur babies.

He was born in Sarnia, Ontario and moved to Niagara Falls as a young boy. Donald (Don) was a journeyman carpenter for most of his life and worked on local icons such as the Skylon Tower, Minolta Tower and the Thorold Tunnel. He would happily help friends and family with anything they needed and was thrilled if a meal was offered in exchange. He was a season ticket holder for the Niagara Falls Junior B Canucks for many years and even when he had mobility issues he still wanted to go to the games. Don enjoyed playing in his 5 Pin bowling league and the Niagara Falls Good Timers softball league for many years. In his later years his favorite sport was watching wrestling on tv, especially WWE Smackdown, 24/7.

A special thank you to the staff and management at River Road Retirement, Westhills Care Centre and the nurses at St. Catharines General Hospital (PCU) for the exceptional care they provided to Don. Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held at a later date at Fairview Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted with Essentials Cremation and Burial Services (905-354-2133). As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be given to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared on Don’s tribute page found at EssentialsNiagara.com.