Don Vair

On Wednesday, July 8, Don Vair, a resident of Belgrave since 1972, passed into the loving arms of the God he has loved all his life.

 

The doctors and nurses of the Wingham & District Hospital and those at St. Mary’s Hospital ICU in Kitchener did all they could to prolong his life, but his heart was worn out, and God lovingly ended his life while he was surrounded by his family.

 

Don was the devoted husband of Mary (Weppler) Vair. Father of Chelta (Donnie) Cuillerier and grandfather of Rebecca, Jacob and Lewis Cuillerier. Brother of Gordon (Mary) Vair and brother-in-law of Rev. Wilbur Matthews. Predeceased by his parents, Harold and Hilda Vair; sister Joyce Vair; parents-in-law, Rev. George and Claudia Weppler; and sisters-in-law Carol (Gordon) Briggs and Leona Matthews.

 

Don was blessed with many talents from an early age. As a young boy, he played the guitar while his brother, Gordon, sang, and together they ministered alongside their father, who shared God’s Word. It was during these early years that Don developed a lifelong love for people and a sincere desire to serve and encourage others. Gifted with a remarkable musical ear, Don taught himself to play both the piano and organ, sharing his music with countless people throughout his life. His artistic ability was equally evident from a young age. His passion for sketching and painting continued to flourish, resulting in more than 300 beautiful barn board paintings over the years.

 

Yet, beyond his many talents, Don’s greatest gift was his heart. Kindness, compassion and genuine care for others defined the way he lived. Above all else, he was devoted to sharing his faith in Jesus Christ, a faith that began when he was just 10 years old. Throughout his life, he placed great value on every person he met, always seeking to entertain, encourage, guide and point others toward the hope of eternal life through Christ.

 

Today, we take comfort in knowing that Don has been welcomed into his heavenly home, where we can imagine him hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” To all who were blessed to know Don, in whatever way he touched your life, his legacy of faith, kindness, music and artistry will continue to live on. While his passing was sudden and saying goodbye is deeply heartbreaking, God’s love and peace remain ever-present. This is not goodbye, Don; it is simply until we meet again.

 

Visitation held at McBurney Funeral Home in Wingham, on Thursday, July 16, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the Wingham Columbus Centre on Friday, July 17, at 1:00 p.m. The funeral will be live-streamed. Reception will follow. Final resting place: Wingham Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Wingham Salvation Army, Wingham and District Hospital Foundation or the North Huron Community Food Share would be appreciated.