Feb 26, 2018
Dr. Don Richard Hurst passed away at the age of 70 years on February 26, 2018 in Sooke, B.C.
As a committed educator, Don touched many lives. He is fondly remembered for ski trips he organized as a high school teacher in Grande Prairie, AB, always eager to share his love for the mountains and skiing with students, friends, and family.
Don held an undergraduate degree, in philosophy and world religions, and a Licentiate Degree in Philosophy. In 2002, he earned his PhD in in the Graduate Division of Educational Research, specializing in the Philosophy of Education. His passion for academics and the pursuit of higher education and the search for meaning, will be something for which he is fondly remembered.
Don is survived by his Mother Elizabeth and sisters Beverley Conklin (Wayne) & Elizabeth Stewart (Larry). He also leaves behind three daughters, Danielle (Dan), Erin (Craig) and Rachel (Peter); grandchildren Gabrielle, Isabelle, Carson and Karis, as well as the mother of his children, Samia Saikali. He was predeceased by his father Richard Irvine Hurst and Uncle George Victor Hurst.
He will be sadly missed by all family and friends, including close friends who touched his life so prominently the Liszczak/Balmain family, the Weston brothers, his Calgary/Lasqueti life partner Lynne Walker, Cheryl Nitchie, Dan Zeyha and many more throughout Sooke, Grande Prairie, Calgary and Ottawa.
Don's last home, his 'perch' as he referred to it, on a hill top in Sooke connected him to the mountains, ocean and stars above where he enjoyed writing poetry. He shared his works proudly with the Sooke Writers' Collective.
Don has left us to be where he can rest for eternity, he has found his peace.
Cremation has taken place and a private memorial will be held in Sooke, B.C. with his closest friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the BC Mental Health Foundation. https://cmha.bc.ca/