Rodgers, Donald Delbert

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear husband and father, Donald Rodgers, on September 14, 2021 at Extendicare Fairmont, Lethbridge, AB, at the age of 96 years.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Sheila, and will be lovingly remembered by his son Glen (Roberta) of Cranbrook, daughter Kathryn (Steve) of Calgary, son Mark (Susan) of Lethbridge, and daughter Robyn (Ted) of Vermilion; grandchildren Laura, Kevin, Rory, Brianne, Thea, Jordan and Jared. He was predeceased by brothers Robert, Jim, and his sisters, Kay, Grace, Eva and Marge. He also leaves to mourn his brother-in-law Gilbert (Bonnie) and many nieces and nephews.

Don was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the son of Evelyn Morrison and Alex Rodgers. He was born into a blended family. The household he grew up in was busy and stimulating as it included university student boarders as well. Don met Sheila Munroe when they were both attending United College (University of Winnipeg) and they married in November 1953. They had over sixty-seven happy years together.

Don attended Gordon Bell High School and both the Universities of Winnipeg and Manitoba. He initially earned degrees in Psychology and Education, followed by Medicine, and he became a Specialist in Psychiatry in 1962. During his career, Don served as Clinical Director at the Selkirk Mental Health Centre, Head of Psychiatry Child Guidance Clinic, and Coordinator of Psychiatric Services for the Jack. A. Hildes Northern Medical Unit Community Health Services, University of Manitoba. He had considerable expertise in northern and community mental health, spending many years visiting remote communities in northern Manitoba and Nunavut. In the early 1960's Don pioneered the development of community mental health clinics in Manitoba. He was the first coordinator of the Walk-In Clinic for out-patient psychiatry at the Winnipeg General Hospital and gave over 25 years of dedicated service at the Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg. He received many awards for teaching and service, and was respected for his day-to-day work with people suffering from mental illness. Don was appointed the Chief Provincial Psychiatrist in Manitoba in 1988. He continued to contribute to the profession, including as a consultant, for several years until his retirement at age 80.

Don and his family had many memorable camping trips, and enjoyed happy times at their cottage on Lake Winnipeg. Dad loved dogs, was an avid reader, enjoyed amateur movie-making, wine and bread making and was a certified beekeeper. Don and Sheila shared a life-long love of music, and enjoyed symphony concerts and music in their home. The study and enjoyment of music was passed on to their children and grandchildren. In 2010, he and Sheila left Winnipeg to move to Vermilion, Alberta for a few years, before moving to Lethbridge in 2014. Don will be remembered for his positive attitude to life, his loving and caring nature and his ever-present sense of humour.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for their kindness and care, to the healthcare staff at Extendicare Fairmont, including Muniza, Leslie, Agnes, Andrew and Linnaea.

A memorial service will be held at Southminster United Church in Lethbridge, Alberta on October 23 at 11:00 am. The service will be live-streamed (www.southminsterunited.org). In lieu of flowers, we suggest you perform an act of kindness for someone in need.