Donald Roland Abbott

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Roland Abbott, surrounded by his loving family on May 24, 2025, in St. John’s, at the age of 76.

Born in St. John’s on October 30, 1948, Don was a loving and dedicated husband, a proud father and grandfather, a dear brother, and a cherished friend to many.

Don was predeceased by his parents Roland and Georgina (Jean), parents-in-law Eli and Frances Lewis, sisters-in-law Florence (Toss) Adams, Margaret (Marg) Wallace, Mary LeShane and Lori Abbott (Rideout) and brother-in-law William (Bill) Lewis.

Don leaves behind to treasure memories of a life beautifully lived: his beloved wife and soulmate Julia (Judy); daughter Colleen (Glen); son Jamie (Amy); and special family member Dena. He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren Nathan, Tucker, Harper, Gabriel, and Evie. Don is also survived by his sister Daphne Noseworthy (Ed), brother Keith (Mary), brother-in-law Ralph Lewis (Marion), and sisters-in-law Maureen Pearce (Harold) and Lorna Squires, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

Don took immense pride and thoroughly enjoyed his work as a master electrician and was a proud member of the IBEW for over 50 years. His outstanding work ethic and unwavering integrity earned him deep respect among his peers. For 21 years, Don could be found spending his Friday evenings bowling with the IBEW Bowling League, where his precision often led him to achieve the highest scores—nearly reaching the perfect 450 score. He also loved playing slow-pitch softball in St. Philip’s for many years.

Don carried a love of nature through all the seasons, animals big and small and could often be found walking through the woods with a granddog by his side. This passion led him to spending time camping and trouting in pits and parks around the province and sharing time with his camping friends around the campfire. As he neared retirement, Don tried his hand at salmon fishing and was firmly hooked. Upon retirement Don and Judy found their happy place in Gambo, spending quiet, and not so quiet, times on the river, fun around the campground, tales and laughter around the campfire, time spent with family especially the grandchildren, friends old and new, from near and far; with his best friend Judy by his side, Don was truly a happy and contented man.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jessica Coffey and the nursing team of 6 East at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital for their compassionate care during Don’s final weeks.

Don will be remembered for his impeccable work ethic, unwavering dedication to his family, patient and gentle nature, warm smile, quick wit, and sense of humor. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, with inurnment to follow at the Columbarium in St. Philip’s Anglican Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation.