VE7KA 1918 - 2006
Donald V. Brumwell
Parksville, BC Canada

QCWA # 13614
Chapter 98
VE7KA - Donald V. Brumwell
First Call: VE4AKA in 1938       Other Call(s): VE6KA

BRUMWELL, Donald Vincent October 4, 1918 March 29, 2006
We celebrate the passing of our wonderful husband, father, grandfather and brother at the age of 87 in NRGH Palliative Care Unit.

Dad was born in Loverna, Sask. and raised on a homestead near Vauxhall, Alberta. In 1948, three generations of Brumwells moved to Victoria.

Dad had a marine-repair business, skippered a tugboat, settling in at the Dockyard as an electronics technician and superintendent of Shop 22 until his retirement in 1978.

Mom and Dad moved to Parksville in the mid 1990's to find peace and quiet near family. Dad had the remarkable ability to design, repair or build anything needed by family or friends. He had a favorite saying: "If it's impossible, it just takes a little longer." Even into his last years, he did electronics, woodworking, mechanics, and welding at home.

Mom and Dad loved their many years aboard the MV Narshbon (Capital City Yacht Club) and traveling across Canada and the States in their motor home.

He had a lifelong love of amateur radio and was a ham radio builder and operator (VE7KA) since the age of 14. He met many lifelong friends all over the world. He was a member and past master of the Masonic Lodge for over 70 years.

Dad endured numerous medical obstacles during his life without complaint. He was a happy, supportive, talented and loving person who lived life joyfully.

Dad is survived by the love of his life, Peg, sons Bruce of Parksville, Michael (Xun Yi) of Vernon and daughter and best friend, Sue Chisholm of Parksville. He was so proud of his grandchildren Dennis (Serene), Curtis, Marty and Nicole Brumwell, Andy (Renee) Chisholm and news of his future great-grandchild. He leaves his step-grandchildren Bill (Karen) Chisholm, Doug (Trudy) Chisholm and his precious step-great-granddaughters Bailli and Tess. Dad also leaves his brothers, Richard (Noreen) of Nanaimo and Charles (late wife Joan) and sister Jean (late husband Frank) Crawford of Vancouver as well as many nieces and nephews.

He will be greatly missed by his special little dog, Buddy.

Our family would like to give special thanks to Dr. R. Henderson of Parksville for his compassionate care of Dad for the past ten years.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society in his name.
Dad declined any service but wanted family and friends to have a cup of tea and celebrate his wonderful life.

Published in The Times Colonist on Apr. 4, 2006