Obituary of Don McPhail

Donald Cameron McPhail, 81, longtime resident of West Elgin, passed away on December 6, 2023 surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 28, 1942 to Neil and Eva McPhail. After a time working at the Royal Bank in Toronto he returned to the family farm on Black's Road. He married his best friend Joan, raised two children, farming into his 70s first with his father Neil and then with his brother Duncan.

Don was a big man with a big heart and a sense of humour to match. He always had a joke to tell or something witty to say. Don was a generous man who opened his home to those in need including taking in his daughter Marie and his granddaughter Caitlin for many years.

Don is survived by his son Cameron and his wife Lucie, his sister Jeanette Kebbel and her husband Herb and his sister-in-law Norma. He is predeceased by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Joan, his brother Duncan, his daughter Marie Phillips and his son-in-law Jason (2006), his parents and his sister-in-law Elizabeth. Don will be lovingly missed by his grandchildren Caitlin Phillips, Neil (Aleria) and Melissa (Jayden). Uncle Don will be missed by many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Don will be missed by many friends and neighbours within the West Elgin and Clachan communities.

Don was so proud of his sister-in-law Norma and nephews Brent, Kyle, Shawn and Scott for farming this year as a tribute to Duncan after his passing.

The family would like to thank Bob Ritchie and George Nute for their friendship and loving support of Don and Joan in their waning years. The family would also like to thank the staff of Royal Oak Senior Living for caring for Don for the past year.

As per his wishes, cremation has occurred. Arrangements have been entrusted to Dennings of Rodney, 212 Furnival Road, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0, Friends and family are welcome to gather together for a visitation in Don's honor on December,16, 2023 from 1 - 2 pm and a celebration of life at 2 p.m and interment at McLean Cemetery. Friends are welcome to join the family for light refreshments at Dennings following interment.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of your choice.