Obituary of Donald Peter Gossen

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It is with sadness, but gratitude for a life that touched many, that the family announces the passing of Don Gossen at Freeport Hospital on August 20.

Don was born in Coaldale, Alberta on March 6, 1950 to John and Mary Gossen, the second of eight sons.

Don attended Rosthern Junior College in Saskatchewan and the University of Waterloo, majoring in English. In addition to his passion for literature and poetry, Don loved music and was a dedicated member of the Schnieder Male Chorus. For relaxation, he enjoyed cooking and was an avid fan of the Blue Jays, Raptors and the CFL.

While battling cancer for the past 17 years, Don never lost his lust for life. He fought this battle on his own terms, never complaining nor playing the role of the ‘sick guy’.  In this time, Don traveled to five different continents with Pauline; played softball with his church team and volunteered his time to numerous organizations; teaching woodworking to challenged children, serving breakfast to young students and starting off golfers at Grey Silo Golf Club (getting his own rounds in as often as he could).

Don is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Pauline; brothers Rich (Anne), Doug, Rob (Linda), Dave (Kayoko), Ray (Mika), Linden (Lynette) and Ed (Monique); step-children Stephen (Diana), Dave (Nancy), Sharon (Paul); grandchildren Trevor (Brittany), Brian (Helen), Rob (Autumn), Scott, and Katie; great grandson James; and nieces and nephews Kale, Liam, Mikail, Kai, Hana, Ema, Alayne, Robyn, Sara, and Anna.

Heartfelt thanks go out to the kind and thoughtful staff at Freeport Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their compassionate care. 

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 1 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Don’s Celebration of Life will follow in the chapel of the funeral home on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 3 p.m., with Rev. Scott Brubaker-Zehr officiating. A reception will immediately follow in the funeral home’s Fireside Reception Room.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Erb Street Mennonite Church, where Don was an active member, would be appreciated by the family. Donations may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com