It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that the family of Donald Frederick Tebbenham, age 71 years, announce his sudden passing after a courageous battle with cancer at the TBRHSC on October 5, 2017, with his daughter by his side.
Don was born on July 2, 1946 in Port Arthur, Ontario to Albert and Doris Tebbenham (Pekkala). He grew up on Lillian Street, having many wonderful memories with his sister Judy and brothers Bob and Gordy. He has three children Tina, Donna and Jeff.
Don was a long-time resident of Chamberlain Street, where he shared a loving relationship with his common-law wife Teresa Finholm, who predeceased him on December 31, 2012. He was a proud lifetime resident of Thunder Bay, Ontario where he began his career with the Parks and Recreation Department. In 1970, he started with CN Rail where he worked his way to be a running trade’s conductor until his retirement on July 2, 2001.
Don lived life fearlessly and with conviction. As hard as he worked, he had an innate sense of fun, spending time with his family in the outdoors where together they camped and fished, creating wonderful memories at Lac des Mille Lacs. He had a passion about gardening and was very meticulous with his flowers and yard. Music was a very important part of Don’s everyday life, enjoying dancing, singing and playing his spoons. He will always be remembered for his BBQ chicken, homemade soups and his smoked fish. He had a hidden talent in woodworking, making memory boxes for his children and his pride and joys’, his grandchildren. He was a long-time dedicated member and strong supporter of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #5.
Don is survived by his children Tina Camarotto (Joe) and Jeff Tebbenham (Lolita) of Coquitlam, B.C.; his four grandchildren Dalton (Mia), Cayden and Parker (their father Patrick) and Emmett of Sherwood Park, A.B.; his siblings Bob (Pat) of Surrey, B.C., Judy Skinner (Mike) of White Rock, B.C., Gord (Sherry) of Athabasca, A.B.; his nieces Laura, Susanne, Lynn and Brittany; his nephews Don and Justin.
Don was predeceased by his common-law wife Teresa Finholm, his daughter Donna Tebbenham, his parents Albert Tebbenham and Doris Pekkala.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 in the Chapel of the Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 North Cumberland Street, presided by Rev. Msgr. P.M. Stilla, V.G. of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. As well, the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #5 will conduct their service of tribute. Visitation for family and friends will take place 1 hour prior to the service time. Following the reception there will be a graveside service in Riverside Cemetery.
Should friends so desire, donations in Don’s memory may be made to the TBRHSC – Northern Cancer Fund.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the cancer clinic, TBRHSC 1A and 2A for their attentive care and support.
