Obituary of Don Dunford DETOMASI

September 1, 1937 – Ely, Nevada
July 31, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Don D. Detomasi of Cochrane, Alberta on July 31st, 2020, at the age of 82 years.

Don was born in Ely, Nevada on September 1st, 1937 and raised in Las Vegas.  Following high school, he attended the University of Utah; obtaining a BSc. in electrical engineering, an MBA, and a PhD. in economics.  While at the University of Utah, Don met and married Kaye Lindquist in her hometown of Blackfoot, Idaho and they celebrated their 56th anniversary in March of this year. Their sons Don and David were born in 1966 and 1969.

Don and Kaye moved to Calgary in 1965 when Don began his career as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Calgary.  Don became a Professor in the Faculty of Environmental Design in 1972; where his focus was on economics, public policy, and urban and regional planning.  He was the recipient of numerous awards and honours, including the U of C Student Union award for outstanding teaching in 1978.

In 1981, Don was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Environment Design and was re-appointed to a second term in 1985. In 1989 he was named Associate Vice-President (Planning), where he continued to serve the U of C until his retirement.  Following this, Don was actively involved with several charitable activities and organizations, including the Light Up the World Foundation. 

Don was a man of keen interests and enthusiasms.  He was an avid golfer and fly-fisherman and had a passion for classic cars; restoring a 1962 Porsche to its original condition in the early 1980’s.  Don travelled extensively (spending several months each year with family and friends in California, and abroad), and he treasured his books, music and art.  He loved to cook and was especially fond of sharing a glass (or two) of wine from his collection with friends and family.  He was known and cherished for his thoughtfulness, sense of humour and his kind and compassionate spirit.

He is survived by his wife Kaye; his children, Don (MaryWyatt), David (Sarah); his grandchildren Curtis, Sam, Jack and Emma; his sister Sandra Westhafer (John); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues. Don is predeceased by his parents Don (Joseph) and Harriett (Zeke) Detomasi, and his sister-in-law Dona Harris (Kent). He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family wishes to thank Dr. David Hadley, as well as Dr. Paul Boucher and his team at the Foothills Hospital Intensive Care Unit for their care and kindness.  A private celebration of Don’s life will be shared by his family and friends.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cochrane and Area Humane Society, or to The University of Calgary Detomasi Research Award for International Students are greatly appreciated. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Don’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Don Detomasi, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Cochrane, 369 RAILWAY STREET, COCHRANE, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.