The Friends are sad to share the news that our long-time Director and Treasurer, Don Goodfellow, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 11 following a short illness. We are all so saddened by this loss.

Don was a pillar of support for all things related to the Friends of Murphys Point Park. In addition to volunteering at most of our events, Don was our Barbecue King. Many of you may have encountered him or volunteered alongside him at our fundraising barbecues over the years, which raised thousands of dollars for Friends’ activities. He worked closely with Park staff to ensure these events went smoothly for everyone involved and was happy to welcome and coach not only Friends and Park students to help with our activities, but also local high school students seeking volunteer hours.

Behind the scenes, Don was a steady, quiet, patient and solid presence for the Board. The Treasurer’s job is a busy one, and he handled it with great competence, keeping Friends’ records organized and up-to-date, meeting all reporting requirements and managing our assets with skill and knowledge. If ever there was a challenge to overcome, Don was quick to step up and help solve it. He could be counted on to lend his support wherever and whenever it was needed.

In addition to being an outstanding “Friend,” Don was also our dear friend – and we will miss him tremendously. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Don’s family, friends and so many other community groups that benefited from his dedication, generosity and kindness. 

In the coming weeks, the Board will be discussing ways we can honour Don’s contribution to the Friends of Murphys Point, and we will keep you posted.