PRESTON, Donald 'Roy' - It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we share that Roy passed away on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, peacefully at his home in Grace Manor in Brampton, at age 88, with his daughters by his side.
He was the loving husband of Margaret (his “sweetie”), devoted father of Susan and Linda (Glenn), and cherished grandfather of Eric, Ian, Aidan, and Emily.
Roy will be deeply missed by his nephews Peter, Martyn and Allan, and his niece Mary, and their families. He also will be deeply missed by his many cousins and their families and his many friends.
Roy was born in St. Boniface, Manitoba, the youngest brother of Harry and Lionel, and moved to Toronto with his parents during middle school. After losing his father Harry at age 11, Roy was raised by his wonderful mother Irene, with the support of the entire Fish family. Roy left high school at 16 to pursue his Tool and Die Maker career. Later in life he completed his Grade 12 diploma, and became a high school machine shop teacher before retiring in 1991.
“Margie” was the love of his life; more than anything else, he loved holding her hand. They married in Toronto in 1956, and lived in Toronto, then Aurora, and then Brampton. Roy’s priority always was his family; you could not ask for a better husband, dad, uncle or granddad.
Roy was fascinated by machines and making things from a young age, and welcomed any opportunity to ride a motorcycle, pilot any kind of boat, or drive any kind of vehicle. Roy enjoyed many interests including photography, travelling, gardening, camping, spending time at the cottage, and music – especially playing his banjo.
Roy was committed to community service, both formally and informally, stepping in wherever he could be helpful, including supporting Margie’s volunteer work with Girl Guides and many other ventures.
Roy will be missed for his many stories about his interesting and full life, his jokes and the way he could make Margie laugh each time, even though she’d heard the same jokes for decades. He loved life, he loved his family, and he left the world a better place. The way he lived his life is an example for us all.
Thanks to Grace Manor for their care for Roy and their continued care for Margaret.
Roy has been cremated as he wished, and when pandemic restrictions allow all who loved Roy to gather, we will hold a celebration of his life. Arrangements are entrusted with Andrews funeral home, Brampton.
As requested by Roy and Margie, in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Stephen Lewis Foundation or the David Suzuki Foundation.
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