Community builder and enthusiastic family role model are among the affectionate attributes that describe Don Llewellyn by those who were touched by his life.
“Don gave to everyone and asked for nothing back,” said Jack Daines, lifelong friend and first cousin of Llewellyn. “He was a man who would work all day long, then if someone called, he was the first there to help out as long as he had to. He understood community.”
Llewellyn was a lifelong resident of Innisfail, a longtime supporter of the Eagles senior men's hockey team, and ardent supporter of his family, friends and community. He passed away on April 10 at the age of 64 following complications from surgery.
“Don was a real role model,” said Daines. “He was an outstanding father who would do anything for his boys Jaret and Kreg as they travelled around the world as water-skiing champions. He modelled his Christian faith throughout his life, putting others first always.”
Llewellyn's parents, Bea and Louie Llewellyn, passed down their enthusiasm for life to their son, added Dan Daines, a director with the Eagles. “They used to water-ski at Sylvan Lake and when Don discovered Dodd's Lake could be used for skiing, he and his family turned it into a hub for skiing in the area, teaching and mentoring local kids for years.”
Dan noted that Louie Llewellyn was once Innisfail's mayor, instilling community service in his son, a lesson that stuck with Don throughout his life.
Serving as an Eagles player for 12 years, he was an integral part of the provincial champion winning teams of the late 1970s and early 1980s, as well as being an avid supporter of the squad until his passing.
“The Eagles are pleased we were able to honour Don at the last playoff game in Innisfail in front of hometown fans,” said Dan. “It was our opportunity to thank him for his support for so many years. He was a valuable part of the team.”
Llewellyn Electric, the company he inherited from his father, was founded in 1937 and was run on the same principles from Day 1 -- community matters.
“Don bought local, supported local events and groups, and maintained a high level of customer and product service always,” added Jack. “His father did the same, and along with his wife Christine he continued the tradition.”
Dan added Llewellyn was a big part of Innisfail's growth, being involved with building large tracts of good quality housing as either a landowner, plumber or electrician.
Don's children, Kreg and Jaret, learned how to water-ski at Dodd's Lake, and then took their skills out to the world and put Innisfail on the world map. All the while, it was noticed by many that Don was 100 per cent behind them, as he was with his grandson Dorien, who is following in his father Jaret's wetsuit prints.
“He was a wonderful man with a good smile,” said Jack. “We all thought of him as a good friend. He will be missed.”
