Donald James Montgomery

DONALD JAMES MONTGOMERY

August 1, 1947 – July 22, 2018

Donald James Montgomery of Wetaskiwin, Alberta, passed away suddenly July 22, 2018 at the age of 70.  Don was born to James and Irene Montgomery on August 1, 1947 in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.

Don is lovingly remembered by his wife Linda, daughter Mary, and two sons, Andrew (Kirsten) and Scott.  He loved and cherished his three grandchildren, Mack, Cali and Meghan.

Don is also remembered by his sister Katharine Clement, brother Robert Montgomery (Shirley), sister-in-law Myrna Wallis (Robert Porter), brother-in-law Scott Farnham (Linda), nieces and nephews.

Don was raised in an entrepreneurial, community-minded family.  From an early age, Don worked at his father’s department store, Montgomery’s Ltd., learning all facets of the business.  He attended the University of Alberta and then Sir George Williams University School of Retailing graduating with the Class of 1970. He became the fourth generation manager of Montgomery’s Ltd in 1973 and later the owner.  In 1992, the family received the Wetaskiwin’s Citizens of the Century Award, marking their 100 years in business.  The Montgomery’s store building now houses the Wetaskiwin and District Heritage Museum.

Don then went on to serve as the Mayor of Wetaskiwin for 12 years, from 1998 to 2010.  Don was a historian and was passionate about preserving Wetaskiwin’s history.  During his time as the Mayor, Don and the council lead the initiative to revitalize the historic Wetaskiwin Court House (1906) and transform it into the modern Wetaskiwin City Hall.  He was proud of the restoration of the historic Wetaskiwin Water Tower (1909), which now stands out in history as Canada’s oldest functioning municipal water tower.  Don and council also spearheaded the planning of the City of Wetaskiwin Downtown Revitalization.

Throughout his life, Don was a proud ambassador for the City of Wetaskiwin.  He served as a volunteer in many capacities including Kiwanis International, Chamber of Commerce, North Am Carnival and Races, and Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.

Don was honoured to receive various awards and distinctions throughout his lifetime including The Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012.

A Celebration of the life of Donald Montgomery will be held at the Wetaskiwin Drill Hall on Saturday, August 18th, at 2:00 p.m.

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