Donald Reich

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Donald “Don” Reich, age 83, announce his peaceful passing on Thursday, May 14, 2020 at The Meadows, Swift Current, SK.

Don leaves to cherish his memory his son, Bryan (Emily) Reich; his daughter, Janet Toth; his grandchildren, Monty (Kari) Reich, Jeff (Kendel) Reich, Travis Toth, and Jodi (Troy) Harkness; his great-grandchildren, Cade Reich, Jace Reich, Janay Reich, Olivia Harkness, Keaton Harkness, Kael Reich, and Evynn Reich; and by his brother, Walter (Erika) Reich.

Don was predeceased by his bride of 53 years, Mary Reich (nee Eckel); his son-in-law, Les Toth; his parents, Alexander & Amilda Reich; and by his sisters, Erma MacDiarmid and Thelma Kalman.

Don was born in Weyburn, SK on November 12, 1936 to Alexander & Amilda Reich. He grew up and attended school in Yellow Grass, SK, where he took a particular interest in music, dance, and most of all sports. Don’s career in the lumber business started right out of High School and he moved to several smaller communities in Saskatchewan. A work injury brought him to the hospital, where he met a beautiful nurse, and the love of his life, Mary Eckel.  They were married in June 1958 and over the next couple of years their children, Bryan and Janet, were added to the family and they settled in Swift Current.

Don worked at Beaver Lumber for forty-five years, before attempting retirement. His social personality wasn’t quite ready for retirement, so he worked for another ten years at Home Hardware. He was a hard worker and immensely enjoyed the lifelong friends he made. Don was respected for his knowledge and had an especially wonderful rapport with all of his customers, especially the Hutterites.

Don enjoyed camping, listening to music, golfing, bowling (in his younger years), and going south to Las Vegas and Arizona in the winter. Playing cards with family and friends was always on his agenda — to this day, they aren’t sure if he was just that good at card games or if there was another reason for his usual winning streak. Don spent the final years of his life being cared for at The Meadows by the loving and kind staff.

Don is remembered by his loved ones as a kind, loving, generous man with a passion for life. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and everyone who had the honour of being part of his life.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at a later date. In memory of Donald Reich, donations made to the Canadian Mental Health would be appreciated by the family. 

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