Obituary of Donald Bruce Breher
To watch the recorded livestream of the service, click this link:
https://video.ibm.com/embed/recorded/132603453
It is with heavy hearts and love that we announce the loss of Don Breher who passed away at home February 26, 2023. Don was the fifth child of six, born to Ferdinand and Bertha Breher in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Don’s modest beginnings, with his sisters at his side and older brother blazing a trail, set the stage for an optimistic life filled with helpful service and encouragement to others to be their best self. Joining the reserves at 16, Don dedicated his life to traditional values. It was at an armoury dance where Don met his wife of 52 years, Eleanor. Together, they raised four sons Darryl, Kevin, Barry, and Dale. Dad was a proud man, believing in the importance of family, relationships, volunteerism, and community service. A notable and proud achievement was his involvement with developing the first indoor Remembrance Day Parade. Endless hours of volunteering at Kiwanis and coordinating community meetings to enrich Saskatoon brought Don a sense of pride and accomplishment. Ringing bells, selling apples, bingo nights and other fundraising projects earned him the status of Kiwanian of the Year.
Don embraced his career in the printing industry, primarily at Modern Press (PrintWest) composing for a short while, then leading and retiring in management. His dedication to the company provided many travel opportunities for the family creating treasured memories.
His creativity and resourcefulness were fully expressed in the endless “cabin project” built at Candle Lake. This retreat for all who visited, filled Don with pride. Camping life always brought immense joy whether in the 1970’s truck camper or the still standing cabin despite risky renovations, outlandish building projects and minor bumps along the way. Needless to say, his life was overflowing with relentless activity.
Don lived life fully. He was never happier than at a “get together” and often was the social convener. He danced, coached his children’s sports, travelled, water-skied, jet skied at 83, enjoyed cards and games, entertained, and raised his children to value honest work, play and the importance of family. As a treasured Grandpa, he cheered and supported his grandchildren at school events, sporting competitions and provided wise insights and guidance.
Don is survived by his partner, Mary Sydor; his three sons and their partners, Darryl (Bonita), Kevin (Jodi), and Barry (Tracy); grandchildren, Chelsea, Benjamin, Aiden, Addison, Johnathon, William, Tonya, and Trevor; great-grandchildren, Christian and Xander; sisters, Shirley Jeffery, Dorothy Gibson, and Margaret (Alan) Smith; sister-in-law, Louise Breher; brother-in-law, Mark Depeel; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. Don was predeceased by his wife, Eleanor; his son, Dale; his brother, Oscar; and his sister, Audrey. The family is appreciative of the love and support during this challenging time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Kiwanis Foundation, 260 Nahanni Dr., Saskatoon, SK S7K 3Z8 or to a charity of one’s choice.
A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held Friday, March 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Saskatoon Funeral Home. For those unable to attend the service, the family invites you to join the service via livestream. To leave condolences and view the livestream please visit Don’s tribute page at www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com.