Our deepest condolences for the Cruickshank family.

Don,

From strangers to neighbours you quickly became one of my most cherished friends and closest confidants. Thank you for your sound advice and words of wisdom, kindness and compassion; for allowing me to be a part of your life and welcoming me into yours; for the outings and introductions, site seeing and recommendations on everything from where to buy the best butter tarts to best places to swim; for lending me your ear, your tools and your time, helping me with everything from rescuing ducks and building a temporary cage to saving me and my other feather babies off the front step the day my house filled with toxic fumes (on your day off, I should add, staying with me for 8 hours as I navigated that disaster and then taking Zack and I for a swim at your ex wife’s house). I don’t know how I would have made it through that day without you. Thank you for the check-ins, pep-talks and encouragement that helped keep me grounded. I am really going to miss our talks through the hedge (our usual meeting place). I seldom get too close to my neighbours (I really don’t think of myself as much of a people person - I’m more of an animal lover), but we just clicked and I knew from the moment I met you that I could trust you with anything and I wanted to be close to you. I normally keep my walls high, but they were non-existent with you. You were a beacon of light in my often dark and overwhelming world, one of my pillars when it felt the walls were crumbling down around me. You provided me a sense of security I’ve only ever known in the company of my Dad. The Universe works in mysterious and amazing ways. Our paths were meant to cross, we were meant to be neighbours and to share in this enlightening and enriching friendship, albeit far too short. I’m going to miss you more than words could ever convey.

Ciara, Kylie and Noah,

Your Dad was so much more than this; it’s difficult to put experiences and emotions into words - they simply pale in comparison. He was a very special man, with an incredible devotion and affection for his family, friends and loved ones. You all made him so very proud. Keep being the best version of yourselves you can be. Your Dad’s spirit will live on through you three and your own children, as you all emulate the same values and virtues that made him such a wonderful and delightful man.

Lisa (Ciara, Kylie and Noah),

While grieving and dealing with your own unimaginable loss, you have all gone above and beyond, extending me so much respect, compassion and loving embrace, recognizing and honouring the special bond Don and I shared. There truly are no words to properly express the depth of gratitude I feel.

Although our time was not long spent, Don made an incredible impression, was a remarkable influence and support to me and my family. I’m incredibly blessed and forever changed for having had the pleasure of getting to know this amazing man who extended me a pure, kind, devout and sincere friendship that is so rare to find.

They say to live each day as though it were your last, to live a life with purpose and to have no regrets; Don did just that and would want you all to continue to do the same.

Kylie and family,
Our sincere condolences on Don's sudden passing. We hope you can find comfort in your memories of him.

May almighty God bless you and keep you safe in his hands . We meet again bro peace n love safe trip home.

My thoughts and prayers are with all that Donnie's life touched in such a wonderful way..."and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand"