Donald Grant Sylvester, much loved husband of Pat and father to two sons and three grandsons, passed away on Wednesday May 18, 2022 at the age of 67 after a year-long battle with cancer.
Growing up in Bowmanville through the 60's, Don survived a very free-range childhood with his four younger siblings, and played all the high school sports. At age 16, he attended McMaster University where he met his wife Pat and many lifelong friends. His first job with Xerox took him to Owen Sound where he began raising a family. In 1985 he moved to Richmond Hill to work with Dell, and then to Ottawa in 1998 to work with Corel as he grew his career in technology sales. He retired from Halogen Software at age 59.
Don was a talented handyman and loved the challenge of repairing what's broken and improving what's not. He loved working outside, especially with his family, and could never pass a construction site without a full examination.
He was a lifelong sportsman who loved to explore the Canadian wilderness on canoe and kayak, and bike trips with friends and relatives. His skiing 'posse' met during winter at Camp Fortune, and his hunting 'posse' met in the fall in Lanark County. Don also loved to kitesurf in Tampa Bay every winter.
An avid traveler, Don explored the world with Pat. They made many journeys through Europe, North America and Asia, but especially enjoyed their trips to the U.S. South. Don pursued his athletic goals with great energy, and was kiteboarding, biking and jogging in Florida seven weeks before his death.
Don's kindness, generosity and curiosity about the world drew people to him. In a difficult situation he was always capable and ready to help. He was so very proud of his two sons' characters and accomplishments and he loved playing with his young grandsons. Don's family was his top priority and his wife, sons, and extended family could always depend on him to be there whenever needed.
We will miss him forever.
Digital Guestbook
Karen Phillips-Knox
Donna Ronayne
So very sad to hear of Don's passing. I was incredibly lucky to have worked with Don as a founding executive at Halogen Software. Don was a great leader - well informed about everything but always humble, always learning, highly respectful of everyone. I learnt so much from Don over the years - and have so many fond memories. He was not only instrumental in our success - he made you smile every day with his good humour and quick wit. Truly a great soul. My deepest sympathies to his wife Pat, his sons, grandsons and extended family.
Cindy McGann
I had the pleasure of working with Don at both Corel and Halogen. After a few months, I started to write down “Donisms” —- little sayings that he would offer in a way that only Don could. I teasingly “threatened” to go public with his words of wisdom. Charismatic, passionate and respectful, Don was a true leader. I am a better person for having known him.
I am so sorry to hear of Don’s passing - he was kind, empathetic and so passionate about his love for life and family. His memory will live on in everyone that knew and loved him. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.