Obituary of Donald Pierre Rivers

1944 - 2021

It is with great sadness that the family of Don Rivers announces his passing on February 23, 2021 in Cranbrook, B.C. 

Don was born in Vancouver on November 21, 1944 and spent his early childhood between Sooke and Salmon Arm. He moved to Nelson when he was eleven and grew up with the mountains and lakes around him. After graduating L.V. Rogers Secondary School, he first attended UBC, then graduated University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Arts degree along with his professional certificate of teaching. Don then completed a Master of Education in Teaching in 1981. Don began his teaching career in Cranbrook where he met his wife, Candy and here they raised their family. Don taught at Central Elementary, then Parkland Jr. High, moving on to Mount Baker High School where his long-standing passion for teaching English Literature was realized. For many students, Mr. Rivers was a favourite teacher. He had a genuine interest in all his students, remembering all of their names years later. He gave his all at school in and out of the classroom and dedicated himself to coaching Mt. Baker Boys Volleyball. When he wasn't teaching or reading, you could find Don hiking, fishing, skiing and spending time in the mountains where he loved to be. He had many friends and a big family for whom he always made time. Don will be greatly missed by many.

Don is survived by his wife, Candy; daughter, Larissa, his sons, Keith (Virginia) and Mike; granddaughter, Victoria; sisters, Betty Anne and Gloria, and his brother, David. He was predeceased by his parents, Jean Pierre, and Frances Rivers.

A special thank you to the F.W. Green Home staff for their exceptional care of Don, to Brian Clarkson, whose friendship and support has meant so much, and to all who have been there for Don and his family throughout his struggle with Alzheimer's.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, March 5, 2021 at 1:00 pm for immediate family. Live streaming of the Celebration will be available for the public, go on to www.mcphersonfh.com and click on LIVE SERVICES at the top at approx. 12:45 pm MST.

Donations in Don's honour can be made to the Cranbrook Past and Present Teachers' Legacy Fund, at www.cfkrockies.ca/donate/. For more help, please call McPherson’s for assistance.

“Though nothing can bring back the hour

Of splendour in the grass,

of glory in the flower,

We will grieve not, rather find

Strength in what remains behind”.

-W. Wordsworth

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com